The Safe Installation of Precast Concrete Flooring and Associated Components

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Precast Flooring Federation Code of Practice for: THE SAFE INSTALLATION OF PRECAST CONCRETE FLOORING AND ASSOCIATED COMPONENTS

2017 PREFACE

This Precast Flooring Federation Code of Practice for the safe installation of precast concrete flooring and associated components has now run for several editions and since the first edition in 2001 there have been many developments, not only in Health and Safety legislation, but also in good practice within the industry.

The Code gives a guide to the current good practice for the installation of all types of precast flooring (beam-and-block, hollowcore, etc) but, in an ever-changing situation, can only be totally up-to-date at the time of its publication.

The PFF is committed to achieving a high standard and universal approach to Health and Safety within its membership and part of this is the provision to employees, customers and designers alike of clearly presented information about the systems of work employed and attendances required.

This edition will be published almost exclusively as a download from the PFF website, although a number of printed copies will be made available to members and training organisations. This document will be updated online – you should check to ensure you are using the latest version.

Installation of precast flooring components is acknowledged to be a potentially high-risk activity, as it involves the use of heavy plant, cranes and personnel working at height. This Code of Practice is, therefore, used as the basis for the training of Installers, Foremen and supervisors to ensure that all have the skills and competence to carry out their roles in a safe manner.

The Council of the Precast Flooring Federation gratefully acknowledges the help and guidance provided by the Health and Safety Executive in the preparation of this Code and is pleased to be able to include the following Foreword from Peter Baker of HSE.

Published and distributed by the Precast Flooring Federation The Old Rectory, Main St Glenfield, Leicester LE3 8DG

Tel: 0116 232 5170 Email: [email protected] www.precastfloors.info

First published 2001 ISBN 0 9536773 1 1 Second edition 2007 ISBN 0 9536773 5 4 Third edition 2013 ISBN 978-0-9536773-6-8 This edition published 2017 ISBN 978-1-9998176-0-2 A catalogue record for this book is available from the British Library

Every effort has been made to ensure that the statements made and advice given provide a safe and accurate guide; however, no liability or responsibility of any kind (including liability for negligence) can be accepted in this respect by the publishers or the authors FOREWORD

Falls have always been, and remain, the biggest cause of death and serious injury in construction. If work at height is planned, including selecting the correct equipment and using it properly, then most accidents involving falls can be prevented.

I am pleased to acknowledge the work of the PFF and those involved in revising this code of practice. It brings together good practice within the industry and has the interest of those involved in the design, specification, use and installation of precast flooring products at heart. It is only by the industry showing leadership, working in partnership, and taking ownership of the management of risk that improvements will be made.

The HSE continues to work closely with the Precast Flooring Federation and endorses this guidance which follows a sensible and proportionate approach to managing health and safety. Please read this guidance and take the appropriate steps to turn the advice into action.

Peter Baker Chief Inspector of Construction

Message from PFF Chairman This is the fourth edition of the Precast Flooring Federation (PFF) Code of Practice supported by HSE. We advise you to take a detailed look at the content whenever you are involved in a precast flooring project. Each member company of the PFF has signed the PFF Charter and pledges to work to the Code both through their in- house construction teams and with all appointed fixing subcontractors. Conformity with the PFF Code of Practice is subject to an independent audit system. This Code represents a significant step in reducing the risk of accidents and injuries in the installation of floors and staircases - we anticipate increasing use of precast flooring systems in the upper floors of houses as demand for quiet and durable floors grows. The Code is accompanied by a guidance document for site supervisors. Whether you are a client, a designer or a contractor, by working with PFF members you can help to ensure safety on your sites. For details of the PFF Charter and its signatories please visit www.precastfloors.info where you can also download this Code of Practice and the guidance document for site supervisors.

i Acknowledgements

The members of the Precast Flooring Federation and stakeholders have made this publication possible. Whilst many individuals have contributed, the following are amongst those who deserve particular mention: ChrisMark AllanBradley – Creagh – Charcon Concrete SteveNick Clarke Bonshor – Hanson – Charcon Construction Solutions MarkJohn BradleyCotton –– HansonArrow Safety Services UK Ltd PaulWilliam Feeley Doherty – Creagh – Creagh Concrete NickJohn GorstDuffy –– BritishHanson Precast GlennGraham Holt Keenor – Forterra – H + Building H Products Ltd LeeNorman Pumfrey Richards – Acheson – Richards & Glover Associates ShaunPaul Thomas Thorpe – –HSE Acheson & Glover Mick Weedall – Longley Concrete

ii Code of Practice for: The safe installation of precast concrete flooring and associated components0 .1 CONTENTS See over for detailed contents

0.1 DEFINITIONS 1

0.2 BIBLIOGRAPHY 3

1 MANAGEMENT OF HEALTH AND SAFETY 5

2 SAFE WORKING METHOD STATEMENTS AND PRE-START CHECKS 15

3 TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION 19

4 DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS 21

5 CONTRACTOR’S RESPONSIBILITIES 31

6 COMPANY REPRESENTATIVE’S ROLE 33

7 FOREMAN’S ROLE 37

8 TRANSPORTATION OF COMPONENTS AND ACCESS TO SITE 39

9 ON-SITE STORAGE OF COMPONENTS 43

10 SAFE USE OF CRANES, FORK LIFTS AND OTHER LIFTING EQUIPMENT 45

11 MOVEMENT OF UNITS BY OTHER MEANS 73

12 ADDITIONAL ON-SITE WORKS 75

13 ACCESS TO WORKING AREA , WORK AT HEIGHT ETC 79

14 PROTECTION OF THIRD PARTIES 95

15 SUPPLIER AND SUB-CONTRACTOR COMPETENCY ASSESSMENT 97

APPENDIX A HEALTH, SAFETY AND WELFARE ATTENDANCES 99

APPENDIX B CONSTRUCTION (DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT) REGULATIONS 103

APPENDIX C SAFETY 107

iii DETAILED CONTENTS

0.1 DEFINITIONS 1

0.2 BIBLIOGRAPHY 3

1 MANAGEMENT OF HEALTH AND SAFETY 5

1.1 Management of Health And Safety at Work Regulations and ...... 5 Approved Code of Practice 1.2 Work at height ...... 6 1.3 Lifting operations ...... 7 1.4 Manual handling operations ...... 7 1.5 Noise at work ...... 8 1.6 Vibration at work ...... 8 1.7 Personal protective equipment at work ...... 9 1.8 Provision and use of Work Equipment Regulations ...... 10 1.9 Welfare facilities ...... 10 1.10 Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) ...... 10 1.11 Occupational health ...... 11 1.12 Site Safety Audits ...... 13

2 SAFE WORKING METHOD STATEMENTS AND PRE-START CHECKS 15

2.1 Introduction ...... 15 2.2 Content of Safe Working Method Statement ...... 15 2.3 Communication of the Safe Working Method Statement ...... 17 2.4 Additions to the Safe Working Method Statement ...... 17 2.5 Special considerations ...... 17 2.6 Pre-start daily checks ...... 17 2.7 Supply only ...... 18

3 TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION 19

3.1 Introduction ...... 19 3.2 Scope ...... 19 3.3 Responsibility ...... 19 3.4 General procedure ...... 19 3.5 Training ...... 19 3.6 Certification/competency ...... 20

4 DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS 21

4.1 The existing environment ...... 21 4.2 Design and planning ...... 21 4.3 Construction phase ...... 23 4.4 Lifting, placing and safe handling of units ...... 23 4.5 Installation of precast concrete floors onto steelwork ...... 24 4.6 Installation of precast concrete floors onto masonry ...... 24 4.7 Imposed loads during the construction phase ...... 28 4.8 Stability of supporting structure during installation ...... 29 4.9 The Health and Safety File ...... 30 4.10 Other construction methods ...... 30 iv 5 CONTRACTOR’S RESPONSIBILITIES 31

5.1 Attendances ...... 31 5.2 Management of construction works ...... 31 5.3 Prevention of damage to precast units ...... 31 5.4 Handrailing to precast stair units ...... 31

6 COMPANY REPRESENTATIVE’S ROLE 33

6.1 Agreed sequence of installation ...... 33 6.2 Method of lifting ...... 33 6.3 Site access ...... 34 6.4 Attendances liaison ...... 34 6.5 Supervision of installation ...... 34

7 FOREMAN’S ROLE 37

7.1 Working to sequence ...... 37 7.2 Pre-start checks ...... 37 7.3 Supervision of installation ...... 37 7.4 Workmanship ...... 38

8 TRANSPORTATION OF COMPONENTS AND ACCESS TO SITE 39

8.1 The stacking and making secure of loads ...... 39 8.2 Loading sequence ...... 39 8.3 Site access ...... 39 8.4 Off-loading ...... 40 8.5 Inspection of precast concrete flooring and other components prior to offload and/or installation ...... 40

9 ON-SITE STORAGE OF COMPONENTS 43

9.1 Stacking at ground level ...... 43 9.2 Temporary storage on installed flooring ...... 43

10 SAFE USE OF CRANES, FORK LIFTS AND OTHER LIFTING EQUIPMENT 45

10.1 Introduction ...... 45 10.2 Management of the lifting operation ...... 45 10.3 Control of the lifting operation ...... 46 10.4 Crane hire or contract lift ...... 47 10.5 Planning the lifting operation ...... 48 10.6 Selection and duties of personnel ...... 50 10.7 Selection of cranes ...... 51 10.8 Safety ...... 51 10.9 Siting of cranes ...... 55 10.10 Hardstanding preparation ...... 57 10.11 `Permit to lift' system/confirmation to process ...... 58 10.12 Proximity hazards ...... 59 10.13 Types of crane ...... 61 10.14 Start of the lifting operation ...... 63 10.15 Examples of safe working practice indicated by use of typical trigonometry . . . . 67 10.16 Other Lifting Devices ...... 69

v 11 MOVEMENT OF UNITS BY OTHER MEANS 73

11.1 Barring ...... 73 11.2 Jacking ...... 73 11.3 Other means of installing or moving components ...... 74

12 ADDITIONAL ON-SITE WORKS 75

12.1 Temporary structural support ...... 75 12.2 Propping ...... 75 12.3 In-situ concrete ...... 75 12.4 Forming holes ...... 76 12.5 Cutting units on site ...... 77

13 ACCESS TO WORKING AREA , WORK AT HEIGHT ETC 79

13.1 Introduction ...... 79 13.2 General principles for control measures ...... 79 13.3 Safe access to the working area ...... 80 13.4 Working at height – control measures ...... 80 13.5 T-beam and block above ground floor level ...... 87 13.6 Staircases ...... 87 13.7 Falls from delivery vehicles ...... 90 13.8 Use of ladders ...... 91 13.9 Rescue procedures ...... 92

14 PROTECTION OF THIRD PARTIES 95

14.1 Other trades or persons on site ...... 95 14.2 Members of the public ...... 95

15 SUPPLIER AND SUB-CONTRACTOR COMPETENCY ASSESSMENT 97

15.1 Introduction ...... 97 15.2 Assessment criteria ...... 97

APPENDIX A HEALTH, SAFETY AND WELFARE ATTENDANCES 99

APPENDIX B CONSTRUCTION (DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT) REGULATIONS 103

APPENDIX C SAFETY 107

C1 HSE General Guidance on Manual Handling, Parts 1, 2, and 3 ...... 107 C2 Example Safe Working Method Statement ...... 109 C3 Example site-specific COSHH Assessment and Control Plan - Petrol ...... 112 C4 Example site-specific COSHH Assessment and Control Plan - Wet concrete . . . .114 C5 Example site-specific COSHH Assessment and Control Plan - Cured concrete . . .116 C6 Example guidance on minimum standards for PPE ...... 118 C7 Example daily pre-start checklist ...... 119

vi 0.1 DEFINITIONS details, designs orcalculationsforaparticular contract. Designer: Thepersonorpersonswho produces speci fications, estimates,drawings, standard, asdefinedbyBS7121–3:2000Section 4.8. lifting operations,where theAppointedPersonhas deemed theoperationsasbasicor Crane Supervisor:Thepersondesignatedby the‘AppointedPerson’tosupervise Crane DriverisalsoknownastheOperator. Working MethodStatementanddirections from thenominatedSlinger/Signaller. The of thecraneinaccordance withtheManufacturer’s OperatingInstructions,theSafe Crane Driver:Acompetentandtrainedpersonresponsible forthecorrect operation cranes toensure thattheydonotcollidewithothercranes,loads andotherequipment. Crane Coordinator: Thepersonwhoplansanddirects thesequenceofoperations of Contracts Manager. of aparticularsiteorproject, i.e.SiteManager, SiteAgent,GeneralForeman, Project/ Contractor’s SiteRepresentative: Thepersonincharge oftheday-to-dayrunning Phase oftheproject the‘Contractor’shallalsomean‘PrincipalContractor’.” for thecontract.Where the‘Contractor’hasoverallresponsibility fortheConstruction who isresponsible forcoordinating allPrincipalContractorrequirements andattendances Contractor: “The‘Contractor’shallmeantheprecast concrete sub-contractor’s client, metalwork. Components: Anymember, article,oritemcomprisedofprecast concrete orancillary meet hissafetyobligations'. knowledge, experience,trainingandotherqualitiestoproperly assisttheemployerto Competent Person:Thepersonisregarded ascompetentiftheyhave'sufficientskills, relation tocompanyoperations. Competent Persontrainedtoassessallhealth,safetyandwelfare arrangementsin the InstallationCompany’s employwitharesponsibility for anumberofcontracts.A Company Representative: ASupervisor/ContractsManager(usuallytravelling)in items andservices. Company: Thesupplierand/orinstallerofprecast concrete componentsandassociated of instructionforthetaskinquestion. holding avalidlicence/certificateoftraininggainedbyattendingrecognised course Certiﬁcated: Havingbeentrainedandqualifiedtofullaparticularrole. Generally, flooring components. Building Designer:Thedesignerofthebuildingorstructure receiving theprecast concrete T-beams andinfillblockstoproduce ground andupperfloors. Beam-and-Block Floor:Concrete flooringsystem,whichcombinesprecast prestressed movement andoperationsonaconstructionsite. Banksman: Apersonwhohasbeensuitablytrainedingivingsignalstocontrol plant which isincludedasAppendixAtothisCodeofPractice. Attendances: Thestandard PFFHealth,SafetyandWelfare Attendances,acopyof of precast flooring/componentpositions,issuedfortheclient’s safety file. actually‘asinstalled’positions As InstalledDrawing:Thelayoutdrawingsconfirming system ofwork. must haveadequatetrainingandexperiencetoensure theimplementationofasafe of theliftingoperationandtoactonbehalf‘Company’.TheAppointedPerson Appointed Person:Thepersonemployedbythe‘Company’tohaveoverallcontrol definitions are intendedtoremove anyambiguity: usedinthisdocumentareMost oftheterms incommonuse.However, thefollowing 0.1 1 FLOORING CODE: DEFINITIONS Duty Holder: Someone who has duties under CDM Regulations 2015. Employing Organisation: The person or organization requiring a lifting operation to be carried out and who has responsibility for safe use of the crane. Flooring: The precast concrete components that form the structural element of a floor and may include associated precast components. Foreman: The person in charge of the precast installation team, undertaking the site work for the Company. Grouting: Filling of voids between adjacent units to stabilise the floor and/or form a structural connection between units. Hollowcore: Precast concrete flooring system, which for the purposes of this document is deemed to include terms such as ‘wideslab’, ‘solid planks’ etc. Installer: Competent Person employed by the precast company to install precast concrete flooring and associated components. Operatives: All other site personnel involved with the precast works, not including Installers. Precast Company: The precast flooring sub-contractor engaged in the supply and/or installation of flooring or precast components. Precast Designer: The designer of the precast flooring units, working for or on behalf of the Precast Company. Principal Contractor: The contractor with control over the construction phase of a project involving more than one contractor. Principal Designer: The organisation or individual (on smaller projects) appointed by the client to take control of the pre-construction phase of any project involving more than one contractor. Precast Installer: A person who, after suitable training, is competent to carry out all functions of Slinger and Signaller, as well as to hoist, place and secure precast concrete sections, including all plumbing/levelling and lining up, and who has the ability and training to work safely, and has a general understanding of structural stability issues. An Installer may be employed by the Company, a specialist installation company or be self-employed. Site Representative: See Company Representative. Slinger/Signaller: A person who has been suitably trained in the proper selection of lifting tackle, the slinging of loads to the crane attachment, while taking into account the capabilities of the crane employed and has the responsibilities, after suitable certificated training, for directing the safe movement of a load attached to a crane, and for the movement of the crane on site. Vehicle marshal: A person who has been suitably trained to control traffic on a construction site. Work Area: The area on a site or building where precast flooring/components are being erected. This generally but not exclusively includes the areas where mobile cranes, tower cranes or other lifting equipment is being used to lift precast components from lorries (or stacks) to the final position. Work at Height: Work where there is a significant risk of injury due to falling. Working Drawings: The layout drawings, section and details, produced by the Precast Designer and issued for client approval, production and installation purposes.

Please note that where the term 'he' or 'his' is used this should also be taken to include 'she' or 'her' as appropriate.

2 0.2 BIBLIOGRAPHY 0.2

This list is not exhaustive, but provides a helpful pointer to useful publications. Note: Please ensure that you refer to the latest edition of these references.

Her Majesty's Government Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 The Work at Height Regulations 2005 The Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981 The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 The Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2016 The Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013 The Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005 FLOORING CODE: BIBLIOGRAPHY The Road and Streetworks Act 1991 The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012

Health and Safety Executive GS 6 Avoidance of danger from overhead electrical lines 2013 HSG 141 Electrical safety on construction sites (no longer available) HSG 144 The safe use of vehicles on construction sites HSG 149 Backs for the future – safe manual handling in construction HSG 150 Health and safety in construction CIS 10 Tower scaffolds (Rev. 4, 2006) CIS 37 Handling heavy blocks CIS 36 Construction dust. (Rev.2 June. 2013) CIS 54 Dust control on cut-off saws used for stone or concrete cutting (Rev. 1. Feb. 2010) General Information Sheet No. 6 (GEIS6) The selection, management and use of mobile elevating work platforms Information Sheet MISC 614 Preventing falls from boom type mobile elevating work platforms Managing health and safety in construction Health surveillance for those exposed to respirable crystalline silica (RCS) – Supplementary guidance for occupational health professionals (amended January 2016) HSE CDM 2015 guidance – http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/l153.htm

3 British Standards Institution British Standards and other guidance notes are issued on a continuing basis and users of this Code of Practice should acquaint themselves with the latest updates and revisions. BS 5975 Code of Practice for falsework BS 7121 Code of Practice for safe use of cranes – Parts 1, 2, 3 and 5. BS 5628 Code of Practice for use of masonry BS EN 818-4 Guidance for the purchaser and user of mechanically assembled slings BS EN 1990 Eurocode – Basis of structural design BS EN 1991–1 – 1 Eurocode 1: Actions on structures – Part 1-1: General actions – Densities, self-weight, imposed loads for buildings BS EN 1992 –1 – 1 Eurocode 2: Design of concrete structures – Part 1-1: General rules and rules for buildings PAS 59 2004 Filled collective fall arrest systems

Construction Industry Research and Information Association CIRIA publication C669 Site Safety Handbook CIRIA publication C703 Crane stability on site CIRIA publication C654 Tower crane stability

The National Access & Scaffold Confederation TG20:13 Guide to good practice for scaffolding with tubes and fittings. TG20:13 Toolbox talk training videos.

1.1 1 MANAGEMENT OFHEALTH ANDSAFETY and Approved CodeofPractice Management ofHealthandSafetyatWork Regulations In additionemployeeshavecertaindutiesunderthe Regulations: The keyactionstobetakencansummarisedasbelow: healthandsafetyprofessionals.it maybenecessarytoemploythehelpofexternal expertise withintheirownorganisations. Where there are complexhazards orequipment, Most employerswillbecapableofundertakingtheriskassessmentthemselvesusing Risk –expresses from thelikelihoodthatharm aparticularhazard isrealised. Hazard –issomethingwiththepotentialtocauseharm, the twomostimportantbeing: Before used, an assessmentofriskcanbemadeitisimportanttounderstandtheterms includes adviceontheselectionofpreventative andprotective measures. Code ofPracticeunderManagementHealthandSafetyatWork Regulations,which maintained. Guidanceontheprocedures forriskassessmentcanbefoundintheApproved to betakencomplywithlegislationensure thathealthandsafetystandards are Assessments willhelptoidentifyalltheprotective andpreventative measures thatneed involved intheworkriskassessmentmustbeproduced inwriting. others whomaybeaffected bytheworkcarriedout.Where fiveormore employeesare self-employed Operativestoassesstheriskhealthandsafetyofworkersany The ManagementofHealthandSafetyatWork Regulationsrequires allemployersand on safetymatters. References, andwhere necessaryobtaincompetent,professional adviceandapproval at alltimes.Formore refer information, tothedocumentsthemselves,listedin to intheintroductory notesbeloware alegalrequirement andmustbeadhered to and others.Regulationsare madeunderSection16oftheAct.TheRegulationsreferred The HealthandSafetyatWork etcAct1974placesdutiesonemployers,employees work situationoranymatter relating totheemployer’s healthandsafetyarrangements. theEmployer (orNominatedPersons)ofanydangerous Employees mustalsoinform means oftransport,etc. with thetraininggiven.This includessafetyequipment,machinery, substances, To makefullandproper useofanythingprovided bytheemployerinaccordance This trainingmustbeupdatedandrepeated periodicallytotake accountofanychanges. Regulations, atinductionwhenfirstemployed,transferred, orifthejob changes. Training mustbegiventoemployeesinrespect ofthedutiesplaceduponthemby the risks identifiedwhere employersshare workareas. measures onthe tobetaken,thenamesofCompetentPersons andinformation mustbeprovidedInformation totheemployeesonrisksidentified,control implement them. Emergency procedures mustbeestablished,andCompetent Personsnominatedto in complyingwiththeregulations. A nominatedCompetentPerson(orpersonsifrequired) mustbeappointedtoassist or circumstances/conditions havechangedsignificantly. Risk assessmentsmustberegularly reviewed andaltered iftheyare nolongervalid This includescontractorsortemporarystaff engagedforspecificwork. the healthandsafetyofemployeesotherswhomaybeexposedtothoserisks. These Regulationsrequire anemployertomakeasuitableassessmentoftherisks 1 5 FLOORING CODE: MANAGEMENT OF HEALTH AND SAFETY 1.1.1 General procedure for risk assessment 1. Identify the hazards and activities. 2. Where possible the hazards identified should be removed/minimised by design. 3. Assess the risks, i.e. the nature and extent of the risks. 4. Assess existing control measures or precautions for adequacy, and decide if any further measures needed. 5. Check for compliance with other legal requirements. 6. Record the findings and arrangements. 7. Issue risk assessment.

Table 1.1 Risk assessment

Severity of harm to personnel Bump/scrape First aid Reportable Major Fatality/ Likelihood No injury needed injury injury disability of harm (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) Unlikely 1 2 3 4 5 (1) Remotely possible 2 4 6 8 10 (2) Possible 3 6 9 12 15 (3) Probable 4 8 12 16 20 (4) Certain 5 10 15 20 25 (5)

Probability rating Severity rating

1. There is little or no risk of injury 1. Minor injury such as a slight laceration or ill health. Only under rare and or bruising requiring limited medical unforeseen conditions is there the treatment likelihood of injury or ill health. This 2. Injury requiring medical treatment, but should be the aim of all workplace unlikely to result in absence from work activities. 3. More serious injury, possibly requiring 2. Remote possibility; if other factors hospital attendance, which could result were present, that injury or ill health in absence from work might occur, but the probability is low. 4. Fracture, dislocation and attendance 3. Possible; the incident may happen if or possible attendance at hospital for additional factors precipitate it, but it treatment is unlikely without the other factors. 5. Serious or fatal injury 4. The event is probable; the effects of humans or other factors could cause the event (injury or ill health), but it is unlikely without additional factors 5. If the task continues, then it is certain that an injury or ill health will occur.

1.2 Work at height The Work at Height Regulations: 2005 apply to all work at height where there is a risk of a fall liable to cause personal injury.

6 1.4.1 1.4.3 1.4.2 1.4 1.3 Introduction Training Manual handlingoperations Lifting operations managing contracts. handling. Suitabletraining willalsobenecessaryfordesigners,specifiersandthose prevention andthe systemsofworktobeusedonthatsiteensure safemanual andtrainingonmanualhandlingrisks, their Installers mustbegiveninformation hazards. Uneven,slipperyorunstableground conditionsincrease theriskofinjury. Areas where unitsare movedorhandledshouldbekeptclear ofobstaclesandtripping stacking areas shouldbeprepared. of theprecast units.Iftheyare nottobeoff-loaded intotheirlayingposition, suitable The roads androutes around thesiteshouldbeprepared inadvanceof the delivery the riskstohealthandsafetyoftheiremployees while atwork. Regulations, whichrequires employerstomakeasuitableandsufficientassessmentof conjunction withRegulation3(1)oftheManagementHealthandSafetyatWork These Regulationsmustnotbeconsidered inisolation,butshouldberead in onliftingoperationscanbefoundinSection10.3ofthispublication. Further information Generally, theRegulationsrequire thatliftingequipmentprovided foruseatworkis: Work EquipmentRegulations(PUWER). LOLER, liftingequipmentisalsosubjecttotherequirements oftheProvision andUseof from liftingequipmentprovided foruseatwork.Inadditiontotherequirements of Regulations (LOLER).Theaimtoreduce riskstopeople’s health andsafety Lifting operationsare by the LiftingOperationsandEquipment governed As partoftheRegulations,DutyHoldersmustensure: example facilitiesmanagersorbuildingownerswhomaycontractotherstoworkatheight). They placedutiesonemployersandanypersonthatcontrols theworkofothers(for The workingenvironment and 12monthlyforliftingequipmentusedtoliftmaterialsonly). monthly where personsare liftedandforaccessoriessuchasslingsliftingchains; Subject toongoingthorough examinationbycompetentpeople(maximum6 Maintained ingoodconditionaccordance withmanufacturers instructions. people. Used safely, i.e.theworkisplanned,organised bycompetent andperformed Positioned andinstalledtominimiseanyrisks. loads. Strong andstableenoughfortheparticularusemarkedtoindicatesafeworking is covered furtherinSection13.4ofthispublication. Equipment forworkatheightisproperly inspectedandmaintained.Work atheight The risksfrom fallingthrough fragilesurfacesare properly controlled. Regulations hierarchy andappropriate workequipmentisselectedandused. The risksfrom workatheightare assessedinaccordance withtheWork atHeight Those involvedinworkatheightare competent. within theseRegulations. All workatheightisproperly plannedandorganised inaccordance withthehierarchy 1 7 FLOORING CODE: MANAGEMENT OF HEALTH AND SAFETY 1.4.4 Individual capability

Particular consideration must be given to employees who are known to have a history of back trouble, hernia or other health problems that could affect their manual handling capability.

1.4.5 Health surveillance

Employers should conduct appropriate health surveillance in order to identify at an early stage any indications that the employee is suffering injury due to the manual handling, thereby enabling further harm to be prevented. Note: Further guidance and a manual handling assessment chart (MAC) can be found at www.hse.gov.uk/msd (search for toolkits).

1.5 Noise at work The Noise at Work Regulations place certain duties on employers, employees and manufacturers. The noise created by any operation may be excessive and could cause a health hazard that requires assessment and control. Wherever there is noise at work you should be looking for alternative processes, equipment and/or working methods which would make the work quieter or mean people are exposed for shorter times. You should also keep up with what is good practice or the standard for noise-control within your industry, e.g. through your trade association, or machinery or equipment suppliers. Action levels (based on daily or weekly average exposure) Lower exposure action value 80 dB (A) Upper exposure action value 85 dB (A) Exposure limit value 87 dB (A) Employers must: Provide employees with suitable hearing protectors if they ask for them, and their noise exposure is between the lower and upper exposure action values; Provide employees with suitable hearing protectors and make sure they use them fully and properly when their noise exposure exceeds the upper exposure action values To make sure protectors are worn fully (all of the time they are needed) and properly (fitted or inserted correctly) will require you to have systems of supervision and training. Also consider the use of spot checks and audits.

1.6 Vibration at work Hand-arm vibration is vibration transmitted from work processes into workers' hands and arms. It can typically be caused by operating hand-held power tools such as portable cut off saws. Regular or frequent exposure to high levels of vibration can lead to permanent injury. This is most likely to occur when contact with a vibrating tool or process is a regular part of a person's job. Occasional exposure is unlikely to cause injury, although it should be avoided by people with medical conditions such as Raynaud’s Disease. Health and safety law requires the company to assess the risk to the health of employees, plan for its control and manage the risk. This will include provision of suitable equipment, correct maintenance of equipment and providing employees with information and training on health risks and safe use of the equipment. The documentation supplied by the equipment manufacturer should provide data on typical vibration levels for the equipment when set up and use in a defined manner. Regular use of hand-held power tools may give rise to potential risk. The risks identified following assessment can be controlled in many ways. Advice and

8 1.7.1 1.7.2 1.7 Introduction Personal protective equipmentatwork The usershouldconductdaily inspectionspriortouseofallequipmentandclothing mustbeidentifiedinRiskAssessmentandMethod Statement. harnesses, prior tothecommencement ofwork.Theusespecificprotective equipment, e.g.safety all timesandusedastheneed arisesorshouldbemadeavailabletotheinstallation team protection, earprotection shouldbecarriedby theinstallationteamat andsafetyharnesses special protective clothingandequipment.Certainitemssuch aseyeprotection, respiratory On certainsites,theconditions,siterulesormethodof workingwillnecessitatetheuseof necessary PPE. equipment andclothing.Employersmustnotcharge employeesforthecostof regarding theproper use,storage,maintenanceandreplacement ofprotective must ensure thatOperativesandInstallersreceive adequateinstructionandtraining duty undertheHealthandSafetyatWork Acttouseandlookafterit.Thecompany items inproper manner. OperativesandInstallersissuedwithsuchequipmenthavea should applyallnecessarymeasures toensure thattheiremployeesare usingsuch The companymustensure thatallprotective clothingandequipment isfitforuseand hearing protection withheadprotection. worn e.g. practicable byanyequipment.PPEmustalsobecompatiblewithotherworn, The physicalstature ofOperativesandInstallersshouldbematchedascloselyis from their OperativesandInstallerswhendecidinguponparticulartypesofequipment. Wherever possible,theCompanyshouldconsiderviewsandcommentsreceived standard atleastequaltothatsetbytheappropriate BritishStandard. identifying theproduct ashavingpassedcertainEuropean Standards, orbeofa policy. However, allprotective equipmentorclothingmustcarrytheCEMark, The distributionandqualityofsuchequipmentare mattersofindividualcompany accordance withmanufacturers’ recommendations. and suitableheadprotection. AllPPEmustbeproperly stored andmaintainedin footwear, high-visibilityclothing,abrasion-resistant gloves,weatherproof clothing must beprovided with,andmustwear, PPEtomeetgeneralneeds,inparticularsafety All OperativesandInstallers,irrespective ofthenature ofparticularsiteconditions, PPE mustbeidentifiedontheGeneralRiskAssessment. Installers engagedintheinstallationofprecast concrete flooring.Therequirements for Employer toprovide suitablePPEnecessaryfortheprotection ofOperativesand The PersonalProtective EquipmentatWork Regulations(PPERegs.)require the require PPEtobeworn. types ofPPEavailable,andidentifiessometheprocesses andactivitieswhichmay The HSEdocumentcontainsadviceontheselectionofPPE,considersdifferent guidance ontheRegulationsproduced bytheHSE. Regulations afterwidespread consultationwithindustry. Readersshouldrefer tothe The HealthandSafetyExecutive(HSE)hasprepared specificguidanceonthe of personalprotective equipment(PPE)intheworkplace. The PersonalProtective EquipmentatWork Regulationsplacerequirements ontheuse with guidance. generated byhand-heldpowertoolsandminimiseexposure tothisequipmentinline It istherefore recommended thattheCompanyshouldassesslevelofvibration manufacturers. approval shouldbesoughtfrom acompetentsafetyprofessional andtheequipment Working clothesandpersonalprotective equipment 1 9 FLOORING CODE: MANAGEMENT OF HEALTH AND SAFETY and any items found to be missing or defective should be notified to the Company for immediate replacement or repair.

1.8 Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) lay down important health and safety requirements regarding work equipment. The primary objective of PUWER is to ensure the provision of safe work equipment and its safe use. The PUWER Regulations make more explicit the general duties on employers, the self- employed and persons in control to provide safe plant and equipment. The PUWER Regulations must not be considered in isolation; in particular, they need to be read in conjunction with the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations. Although the prime duty for ensuring health and safety rests with employers, employees also have legal duties, particularly under Sections 7 and 8 of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act. These duties have been supplemented by Regulation 14 of the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations, which require that employees must correctly use all work items provided by their employer in accordance with the training and instructions they received to enable them to use the items safely.

1.9 Welfare facilities On the majority of sites, the provision of welfare facilities will be on a shared welfare basis, where the Contractor provides the necessary facilities that can be used by Operatives and Installers engaged in the installation of precast concrete units. When no formal welfare arrangements exist, the Company should ensure that the necessary facilities are provided by way of an Attendance, based upon the Health, Safety and Welfare Attendances (Appendix A) issued at quotation stage, or alternatively, the Company may provide facilities for use by Operatives and Installers. The ultimate responsibility for ensuring that the facilities are provided, and that they are of a standard equal to that required by the CDM Regulations, remains with the Company, and therefore, the Company’s Representative must satisfy himself that the facilities provided, from whatever source, are adequate.

1.10 Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) 1.10.1 Introduction

In order to comply with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations, the Company must ensure the collection and issue of up-to-date information on the potential hazards and toxicity of all materials and substances used by the Company in carrying out its site activities, and the control measures to be adopted. Materials and substances include anything that workers could encounter, use or generate, e.g. contaminated ground, ready-mixed concrete, dust from cutting operations, etc.

1.10.2 General procedure

Assessment sheets for all products used on site are to be issued to the Company Representative. All Operatives involved in the use of these materials, e.g. cement, ready-mixed concrete, etc. should be instructed on the hazards from the particular material about to be used, will be instructed in all necessary precautions, and any PPE required will be provided and used. This equipment will be put into use before any substance is used on site.

10 1.11.1 Introduction 1.10.3 Silicadust 1.11.2 1.11 Pre-employment healthscreening Occupational Health In addition,where apotentialemployee istoworkinanarea where theymaycome into should includequestionsonthefollowing,butisnot limitedtothoselistedbelow: could affect theirsuitabilitytodothejobthattheyare applyingfor. Thequestionnaire questionnaire toassisttheCompanyinassessinganypotential healthproblems that A personapplyingforasite-basedpositionshouldbe provided withabrief during thecourseoftheiremployment. record thehealthstatusofnewemployeesothat anychangescanbemeasured Itisalsonecessaryto of apotentialnewemployeeforthetasksthathewill perform. Pre-employment healthscreening isanessentialrequirement inestablishingthefitness Certificate forsafetycriticalworkers. a systemofidentifyingthoseon-siteworkerswhoare inreceipt ofaFittoWork and healthsurveillance.Pleasebeaware thatsomemajorcontractorsare implementing the followingrecommendations are maderegarding pre-employment healthscreening assist inmonitoringtheeffectiveness ofthecontrols describedinthisCodeofPractice, installing precast concrete canbeaffected iftheworkisnotproperly controlled. To The managementofhealthisanimportantaspectsitepractice.those Dust control oncut-off sawsusedforstoneorconcrete cutting. silica dustcanbefoundintheHSEguidancepublicationsCIS36Silicaand54 affecting allpersonsinthevicinity. Controls andprotection againsttheinhalationof hierarchy ofcontrol intheCOSHHRegulationsmustbefollowedtoprevent silicadust Silica dustcanbegeneratedduringallcuttingactivitiesofprecast concrete units.The contractors. other substancesonsitethatcouldaffect theCompany’s employeesortheir sub- The CompanyRepresentative shouldrequest theContractortosupplydetailsofany Statement. partoftheCompany’sCopies ofCOSHHAssessmentsheetsmayform Work Method periodic intervalsbytheCompanyRepresentative. Company. Checksthatcontrol measures are beingadhered toshouldbemadeat toxicity butallOperativesmustbemadeaware ofthehazards atalltimesbythe The materialsusedintheinstallationofprecast concrete floorsare generallyoflow concerned. approved procedures, asnotedontheAssessmentSheetforproduct orproducts Empty containersandwastematerialmustbedisposedofinaccordance withthe procedures. in theAssessmentSheet.TheCompanyRepresentative shouldmonitorthese action mustbetakentoretrieve thematerial,inaccordance withinstructionscontained contained intheAssessmentSheets,andeventofanyspillage,appropriate All substancesreceived onsiteshouldbestored inaccordance withtheinstructions Vibration andworkwithvibratingtools. Vibration Skin complaintssuchasdermatitis. Dust anddustyenvironments. Noise andnoisyenvironments. 1 11 FLOORING CODE: MANAGEMENT OF HEALTH AND SAFETY contact with, or be exposed to substances or situations that could affect their health, they will be provided with a pre-employment medical examination. In any case, it is recommended that all new employees are assessed for the following: Audiometry (assessment of hearing where an employee is likely to work with noisy equipment). Lung function. Hand-arm vibration assessment (where the person has reported suffering from the problem and will use vibrating tools during the course of employment). Vision testing.

1.11.3 Health surveillance

It is recommended that employees undergo general health surveillance, undertaken by a suitably trained, Competent Person, at a frequency to be determined by the employer’s risk assessment policy. This will allow the company to identify where a person’s health has been affected. The health surveillance should cover the following: Audiometry Where noise levels exceed 80 dB(A), those persons exposed should be screened for hearing loss. Vibration Where persons are exposed to vibration to their hands and arms, e.g. in the use of cut-off saws, etc. then they should be screened for disease related to hand-arm vibration syndrome. The initial screening can be carried out using a self-assessment questionnaire, followed up by specialist consultation where the questionnaire results indicate that this is necessary. Skin conditions It is recommended that any person who is likely to be exposed to chemicals or substances that are known to be capable of causing occupational dermatitis are subject to regular skin inspections as part of the health screening arrangements and in addition are trained to recognise the symptoms related to occupational dermatitis. Lung function Where a person is likely to be exposed to dust it is recommended that lung function tests are carried out in accordance with the advice given by an occupational health professional. Vision Where a person is operating or controlling mobile plant it is recommended that vision screening is carried out. The records of the surveillance must be kept strictly confidential in accordance with all current legislation on Data Protection. Access to these records is limited, and the person to whom the records relate must be asked for their permission in writing before any medical report can be requested from Doctors and other medical personnel. The results of the surveillance should be passed to one nominated individual within the company so that they can arrange any changes to work pattern or arrange referral to an occupational health physician or other specialist as required.

12 1.12 Site SafetyAudits should beissuedtotheSecretary ofPFFoncompletion. Health andSafetyCommittee,whichmaintainsalistofapproved auditors.Auditresults components andisavailablefrom thePFF. Auditorsmustbeapproved bythePFF Code ofPracticeforthesafeinstallationprecast concrete flooringandassociated they are asignatory. Theprotocol forthese SiteSafetyAuditsisbasedonthisPFF Safety Auditsinaccordance withtherequirements ofthePFFChartertowhich Members ofthePFFwhoinstallprecast flooringare required Site tohaveformal 1 13 FLOORING CODE: MANAGEMENT OF HEALTH AND SAFETY Page left blank intentionally

2.2 2.1 Introduction 2 COMPETENT PERSON AND DAILY PRE-START CHECKSBYA SAFE WORKINGMETHODSTATEMENTS Content ofSafeWorking MethodStatement the following information as aminimum. the followinginformation Safe Working andshouldcontain MethodStatementsmustbeconcisebutinformative Phase Plan/DesignRiskAssessment,and/orcontractor’s specific requirements. requirements, from information thePre-Construction andtheConstruction Information the SafeWorking MethodStatementsmusttakeaccountofspecificsiteconditions/ Working MethodStatementwillcontaincommonelementsandactivities.However, Precast flooringinstallationissimilarinnature onmanysitesandtherefore aSafe prior tositeinstallation. thus allowingtimeforapproval ormodificationoftheSafeWorking MethodStatements must beprovided partiesattheplanningstage, andcommunicatedtoallconcerned the actualsequenceofworknecessarytomanagehealthandsafety. Basicinformation components. Theyprovide onthearrangementsand,where theinformation required, covering hazardous activitiessuchastheinstallationofprecast flooringandassociated Safe Working partoftheoverallSafetyManagementSystem, MethodStatementsform position andliftplan arrangements/ type/ Crane contract Temporary works and sequenceofwork Method ofinstallation Description ofcontract Part 2 contact Site manager/agent/ Site address Precast company client Principal Contractor Part 1 Description and information (contract,siteandplant) Description andinformation Management andcontrol and controls theliftingoperations. principal contractorortheprecast componentinstallerorganises the control ofthecranesupplier, orasa‘cranehire’ where the Whether thelifthasbeenarrangedasa‘contractlift’tobe under temporary worksare ready tobeloadedbefore use? needed? Whatare thesitehandoverprocedures toensure thatall the ground abletosupportcraneloadings?Isadesignedplatform doing thisandwhowillbeincharge andcontrol theoperation?Is need tobeinstalledafterflooringunitsare landed,whowillbe system beinstalledpriortoprecast flooringbeingplaced?Ifprops anyareas thepropping needtobetemporarilypropped?Will Will need tobeinstalledfirstandlast? requirements, e.g.,where willworkcommenceand which areas How theunitswillbeliftedandpositionedotherrelevant number ofvisitsthatwillbenecessarytocompletethecontract. Brief descriptionoftheworktobecarriedout-mayinclude The pointofcontactatthesite. The address atwhich theproposed workistobecarriedout. The nameofthesub-contractor/clientprecast company. The nameoftheContractorincharge ofthesite. 2 15 FLOORING CODE: SAFE WORKING METHOD STATEMENTS Part 2 Description and information (contract, site and plant)

Crane contract The crane type (rating and style, tonnage, mobile, tower, outrigger arrangements/ type/ loadings etc). General location of the crane, the location of position and lift plan any obstructions or nearby hazards including overhead and (Continued) underground services, voids, tanks etc. The lift plan may comprise a separate document drawn up by a lifting specialist (the appointed person) and setting out the lifting arrangements including stating a) who will supervise each type of lift and b) who will act as slinger/signaler.

Maximum component The maximum weight/radius’ for each component type must be weights and crane stated and any recommendations from the crane suppliers must working radius be considered.

Deliveries and site The form of transport by which the components are to be access delivered, offloaded and the access and egress requirements, e.g. hardstanding preparation and maintenance requirements, How will vehicles be marshalled onto and off site.

Loading, unloading and Design information to ensure that the precast units are correctly storage requirements supported on bearers and correctly lifted to ensure that each unit is not overloaded and damaged by the compression face/side being placed into tension. Part 3 Stability and bearings

Stability and bearings The adequacy of bearings and the Principal Contractor’s responsibility for checking them prior to work commencing. The Principal Contractor’s responsibility for ensuring stability and the sequence of installation. Part 4 Personnel

Foreman The name if known or a statement allowing the Foreman to make himself known on arrival at site.

Lift planner (appointed Statement to confirm the competence and training of the person), Slinger/Signaller, Appointed Person, Crane Operator, Slinger/ Signaller and (Banksman) Installer Installers who will be involved in the installation.

Other site operations/ Where co-operation and coordination with other site operations/ third parties third parties is required, this must be stated. Part 5 Health and safety management and control measures

Personal protective List of PPE requirements at the site and general statement equipment showing that all Operatives and Installers will comply with current/ site requirements.

Access to work area A safe means of access and the Contractor’s responsibility to supply. The use of scaffolding, temporary access, etc.

Positioning of Standard and non-standard/unusual methods of positioning and components installing components.

Access to and Working Statement regarding the means of access to the work area and the at height provision of handrails and other means of protection.

Leading edge protection The use of fall prevention/arrest equipment, e.g. birdcage scaffolding, decking systems, safety nets/ airbags. Means of rescue from the fallen position. Plus the use of barriers or edge protection to close off open edges that will not be completed for some time.

Welfare facilities Provision of facilities, e.g. first aid, restroom and toilets. Part 6 Amendments and additional information

Amendments to the Should any part of this Method Statement require amendment Method Statement or alteration, this must be notified for agreement by all relevant parties prior to it being enforced.

2.5 2.4 2.3 2.6 Special considerations Additions totheSafeWorking MethodStatement Communication oftheSafeWorking MethodStatement Pre-start dailychecks been completedandsignedoff byaCompetent Person.Thiscoversthefollowingareas: The Precast Companymustensure thatpriortoany workcommencingapre-start checkhas be affected. mustbesuppliedtoPrecastInformation CompanyRepresentatives andotherswhomay overhead powerlines),etc. aspects, andofspecialhazards, e.g.contaminatedland,proximity hazards (suchaslive of theday;orwhere publicroutes mustbekeptclearatalltimes)andenvironmental schools, hospitalsetc.where, e.g.,delivery/workingmayberestricted tocertaintimes consideration ofplanning,deliveryandaccess(especiallytosensitivesitessuchas mustbesuppliedbytheContractortoPrecastInformation Companyfollowing on thenature ofthecontract. will varyanddepends This listisnotexhaustiveandthelevelofinformation/inclusion referring tootherdocuments,forexample: The SafeWorking MethodStatementmaybesupplementedbyattachingand/or communicated topersonnelundertakingthework. following liaisonwiththeCompanyandContractor. AnyVariations are tobe Working MethodStatement.Anyvariationsare tobereviewed/approved andrecorded understand thesafeworkingmethodstatementandmonitoradequacyofSafe use duringtheinstallationphase.TheForeman mustensure theinstallationcrew Statement mustbesuppliedwiththeWorking Drawingsfortheinstallationcrew to copy mustbeaddedtotheConstructionPhasePlan.Thecurrent SafeWorking Method amended copysenttotheContractor. Onceapproved andsigned,theContractors and approval. Where changesare madethesemustberecorded andtheappropriate The SafeWorking MethodStatementmustbesubmittedtotheContractorforreview Welfare facilities. Proximity hazards. Ground conditions. Structural stability. Work atheight. Crane andliftingrequirements. The HealthandSafetyPlan. Code ofPracticefortheSafeInstallationStructuralandArchitectural Precast Concrete. Precast Sheets. Flooring FederationCodeofPractice,AttendancesandInformation Specifications andcerticationofplantequipment,etc. Addendums totheSafeWorking MethodStatement. Risk assessments. Company representative reports. Crane PlanningScheduleandLiftPlan. Company procedures, forexample,thoseregarding handlingandstorage. Company sitesafetybooklets. 2 17 FLOORING CODE: SAFE WORKING METHOD STATEMENTS The Precast Company should ensure that the Competent Person/Site Representative is made fully aware of the need to check and sign off the above on the day of the visit to site. Any problems found should be reported to the Company and the Contractor’s Site Representative.

2.7 Supply only In the case of a supply-only contract, guidance should be taken from the manufacturer. Installation of the components should be carried out by persons with the necessary skills, knowledge, training and experience to undertake the task safely.

3.4 3.3 Responsibility 3.2 Scope 3.1 Introduction 3.5 Training 3 TRAINING ANDCERTIFICATION General procedure may includethoseinthefollowinglist,whichisnotexclusive. approved trainingorganisations (e.g.CITB/CPCS/Othertrainingproviders). Courses The trainingofpersonnelatalllevelsistobecarried outbyCompetentPersonsor PFF membercompany. The extentoftheemployee’s trainingwilldependuponthepositionheldwithin in Erection ofPrecast Concrete (Flooring)orsimilarapproved precast concrete scheme. All personnelare tobetrainedgenerallyinaccordance withtheLevel2NVQCertificate necessary trainingrequired. Identify anyshortfallbetween(a)and(b),thedifference betweenthetwowillbe attributes withtheskills,knowledge,trainingandexperiencetheywillneedforjob. knowledge, trainingandexperienceoftheirworkers.(b)compare theseexisting kept securely. TheCompanyshould (a)assesstheexistinghealthandsafetyskills, tasks allocatedtothemandforensuringthatfullrecords ofanytrainingprovided are and trainingintheinstallationofprecast concrete products, forthemtocarryoutthe have, orare intheprocess ofobtainingtheappropriate skills,knowledgeexperience It istheresponsibility oftheCompanyemployingindividual(s)toensure thatthey their employeesandsub-contractors. necessary toensure, sofarasisreasonably practicable,thehealthandsafetyatworkof employer toprovide instruction,trainingandsupervisionasis asmuchinformation, Section 2oftheHealthandSafetyatWork Actimposesageneraldutyonevery training. for theiremployeesandensure thattheirsub-contractorshavereceived theappropriate Employers havearesponsibility undermanyregulations toprovide appropriate training Designers. The trainingthatappliestoTrainees, Installers,Foremen, SupervisorsandPrecast and refresher trainingasrequired. the leveloftraininganindividualhasachievedandshouldprovide training,instruction precast concrete flooringandassociatedcomponents.TheCompanyshoulddetermine understanding oftheobjectivesthisPFFCodePracticeforsafeinstallation carried outbyitsmembercompaniesare competent.Thisincludesensuringagood The PFFiscommittedtoensuringthatallInstallersinvolvedininstallationactivities associated components. This PFFCodeofPractice for thesafeinstallationofprecast concrete flooringand Work atheight/work atheightequipment. Powered cut-off sawandabrasivewheeloperation. Manual handling. Site safetyawareness. 3 19 FLOORING CODE: TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION Slinger, Signaller. Crane Supervisor (BS 7121). Appointed Person (BS 7121). MEWP (mobile elevated work platform) scissor and boom operation. Forklift/tele-handler operation. Passive fall installation. CDM Regulations 2015. Tower scaffold. Temporary Works Supervisor. Site Supervisor Safety Training Scheme In addition it is recommended that each team of Installers has either a suitably qualified person to administer emergency aid or a fully qualified First Aider. The employer’s duty to provide first aid is set out in Regulation 3(1) of the Health and Safety (First- Aid) Regulations “An employer shall provide, or ensure that there are provided, such equipment and facilities as are adequate and appropriate in the circumstances for enabling first aid to be rendered to his employees if they are injured or become ill at work”. Note: The need for refresher and update training must be regularly monitored; no employee can remember everything, especially if it is not an everyday part of the individual’s work. The need for re-training is an essential requirement to satisfactorily meet the requirements of the current Regulations. Re-training requirements can be monitored by expiry dates on certificates of achievement or by periodic assessment of individuals followed by refresher training. Training is the responsibility of the company employing the Installer and other Operatives.

3.6 Certiﬁcation/competency Trained and competent Operatives should hold the following competency cards in accordance with the construction Skills Competency Scheme (CSCS) and the Construction Plant Competency Scheme (CPCS): CSCS Precast Concrete Installer (Industry Accreditation A) card. CPCS Slinger Signaller card. Operatives who have not achieved these cards should receive appropriate training and carry out the following NVQs, which will enable them to achieve the appropriate competency card: NVQ in Precast Concrete Installation (Flooring). NVQ in Slinger Signalling.

4.1 4.2 4 DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS the minimumendbearing required when the unitisinitsfinalposition. given toensure thatthere issufficientclearancetoplacethe unitwhilststillachieving must assessthesuitability and adequacyofsupports.Careful consideration mustbe position (ontoledgerangles orsimilar).TheBuildingDesignerandPrecast Designer Particular attentionmustbegivenwhere unitsmayneedtobetiltedortwistedinto and installationofprecast flooring. the PFFcandemonstratetheirexperienceandcompetence inthedesign,manufacture ensure theysecure thehealthandsafetyofthose affected bytheirdesign.Members of The CDMRegulations:2015require adesigner’s competencetobeconsidered to The followingaspectsshouldbeinvestigated;aspartoftheplanningprocedure Designer isnottheBuilding ordinating designstoachievesafeinstallation.InthetextthatfollowsPrecast isprovidedRegulations 2015,thefollowingdetailedinformation toassistinco- Designers, DesignersandContractorsinmeetingtherequirements oftheCDM and Installersworkingatheighttheuseofcranes.To assistEngineers,Principal Installing precast concrete floorsisahigh-riskactivity, whichusuallyinvolvesOperatives The existingenvironment Design andplanning and partialorfullevacuationsmustbeplannedagreed inadvance. airspace ofthird partiesinconjunctionofafullriskassessment. Allsiterestrictions buildings. Inthesecircumstances, mustbegainedtooperatewithinthe permission On restricted sitesitmaybenecessaryforloadstoliftedoveradjacentlandand may hindertheoperationofcranes. The presence ofpowerlines,railwaytracks,trees oroverheadstructuralobstructions are ahazard andstrengthening mayberequired. Excavations, underground services,drains,waterattenuationtanksandbasements ground conditions. vehicle movementsandtoreduce theriskofslips,tripsorfallsoccurringdueto provided andsuitablymaintainedinorder tominimisetheinteractionwithsitetraffic, Safe accesstotheworkarea forsiteoperatives,plantandequipmentmustbe safely supporttheloadsimposedbycrane’s outriggers. lorries. Anadequatedesignforhardstanding mustbeprovided andmaintainedto Access totheworkarea mustbeprovided andsuitablymaintainedforcranes protection equipmentaround vehicles. deliveries, andplanadequatearrangementsforoffloadingpositionsfall The ContractorshouldconsidertheTraffic ManagementPlan,othertradesand several weekstoarrange.ThePrincipalContractormustplanthisahead. requires liaisonwiththeLocalAuthorityundertheirlicensingschemewhichcantake and Streetworks Act.Partialorfullroad closure (includingpublicfootways/pavement) must ensure thatanyactionstakencomplywiththeHighwaysActandNewRoads the deliverylorriesare off-loaded from thepublichighway. InthiscasetheContractor Pedestrian andtrafficmanagementmeasures needtobeconsidered, especiallyif restricted accessmaynecessitatetheuseofrigidlorries. The precast unitsare usuallydelivered tositeonarticulatedlorries;narrow roads or and placingtheunits. themethodofoff-loadingThe sizesandweightsofthecomponentswilldetermine 4 21 FLOORING CODE: DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS To assist the Precast Designer, the following Pre Construction Information should be provided at Tender Stage: Pre-tender stage Health and Safety Plan. Design loads including finishes and imposed loads. Drawings showing the supporting structure for the precast units and direction of span. Phasing or sequencing of the works. Site and services plan.

4.2.1 Information following order When an order is placed for the precast concrete units, the Contractor should provide the Precast Flooring Company with the following information: Any relevant amendments to the Construction Phase Plan. Fully dimensioned ‘Construction Issue’ drawings, detailing the supporting structure for the floors and any other aspects that may affect the floor design and installation. Loadings, including type and location of partitions, types of finish, etc. Position and sizes of all holes, notches or rebates required in the flooring. Site and services plan (if not provided at tender stage). Provisional sequencing and programme dates. Where working in the vicinity of rail tracks, underground railway lines, or energy supply structures such as power cables, all permissions that are required from the owners or controllers of the relevant infrastructure are to be given in advance, along with any special instructions for the safe installation of the works. Information on the location of any nearby schools, or other establishments which could place restrictions on delivery times, working times, or could pose issues with access for certain types of delivery vehicles. Any pertinent ground conditions e.g. access roads, crane hardstandings.

4.2.2 Stability of the structure Designers must take into account the stability of the structure during the installation of precast components: The Building Designer must ensure all load paths arising from the temporary precast installation process have been examined and suitable factors of safety incorporated into the design. Consideration should be given at the planning stage to allow for the removal, prior to the installation of the components, of overhead obstructions, such as purlins, bracings or main beams (where spans change at the level above) that are likely to foul or hinder the crane boom or suspended load. Precast components are heavy. Bearings must be adequate and be robust enough to withstand normal unit fixing operations including landing and barring. Lintels or steel beams must be securely fixed and have adequate safe bearing at each end to avoid overturning, excessive deflection, or collapse when the precast units are placed. Consideration must be given to the unequal loading of unrestrained walls, lintels or steel beams when precast units are being placed. The practice of installing precast units onto temporary bearings must be avoided wherever possible. In cases where the use of temporary bearings is unavoidable they must be designed and installed by a Competent Person (provided by the Contractor). The location of temporary bearings should be agreed with the precast unit designer to ensure that the unit is not overstressed while temporarily supported.

4.3 4.4 †† Inthecaseofconventional grouts, aminimum of72hourscuringtimeshould be allowed. Construction phase Lifting, placingandsafehandlingofunits floors byfollowingtrades. should besoughtfrom theCompanypriortostorageofunfixedmaterialson should not exceed theloadforwhich the floorhasbeendesigned. Advice andapproval be allowedforagrouted floortomature priortoloadingoutwithmaterials,which A periodofcuringtimeinaccordance withthemanufacturers’ recommendations should of thestructure tofacilitatethesafeinstallationofprecast units. proposed sequenceofconstructionandtheeffects ofanytemporaryremoval ofparts The BuildingDesignerandthePrecast Designermustgiveconsiderationtothe may haveonthetemporarystabilityofstructure duringtheinstallationprocess. The BuildingDesignermustconsidertheeffect thatopenings,suchaswindowsanddoors, thickness, particularlywhere shared bearingsoccuronlightweightmasonryblocks. The BuildingDesignermustgiveconsiderationtotheprovision ofadequatewall stiffness (specialconsiderationmustbegiventoretarded mortar). allowed formasonrymortartomature suffi ciently toachieveadequatestrength and of thestructure duringtheinstallationofprecast concrete units.Time mustbe A majorconsiderationfortheBuildingDesignerandContractorshouldbestability working area covered bycranesusedforinstallingtheprecast units. The Contractormustensure thatothertradesandthepublicare keptoutofthe should address thefollowingactivitieswhenrelevant: without theprovision ofajob-specificmethodstatementandriskassessments,which Installing precast concrete floorsisahigh-riskoperationandshouldnotbeundertaken Attendances havebeenprovided. The Contractormustensure thatthePFFStandard Health,SafetyandWelfare training andexperience(orwhoare intheprocess ofobtainingthem). of thePFFonlyemployPrecast Installerswhohavethenecessaryskills,knowledge, Precast Installerswithknowledgeoftheproduct andmethodsofinstallation.Members lifting tackleafterunitshave beenplaced. detailed astoallowforadequate andsafehandling,includingmeansofremoving Areas ofprecast units,bothcollectivelyandindividually, mustbesodesignedand installation sequence. must payattentiontotheon-sitepracticesofhandling precast unitsandtheir As aprimeconsiderationatthedesignstage,Building DesignerandtheCompany experience tocarryouttheirroles inasafemanner. foremen andsupervisorstoensure thatallhavetheskills,knowledge, trainingand height. ThisCodeofPracticeis,therefore, usedasthebasisfortrainingofinstallers, risk activity, asitinvolvestheuseofheavyplant,cranesandpersonnelworkingat Installation ofprecast flooringcomponentsisacknowledgedtobeapotentially high The installationofprecast concrete unitsshouldbeundertakenonlybycompetent † engaged inthesupply and/orinstallationofflooringorprecast components. way thatsecures thehealthandsafety foranyoneworkingonthesite.This dutywillalsoextendtothePrecast Company out theworkhaveskills,knowledge, trainingandexperiencetocarryoutthework theywillbeemployedtodoina CDM 2015placesdutiesonContractors andPrincipalContractorstoensure theindividualstheyemployorappointtocarry Structural stabilityatalltimes Working withwetconcrete/mortar. Handling orcuttingconcrete products. Working withcranes. Working atheightwithriskofpersonnel/objectsfalling. Manual handling. Slips, tripsandfalls. †† †

4 23 FLOORING CODE: DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS Particular attention must be given where units may need to be tilted or twisted into position (ledger angles or similar). The Building Designer and Precast Designer must assess the suitability and adequacy of supports. Careful consideration must be given to ensure that there is sufficient clearance to place the unit whilst still achieving the minimum end bearing required when the unit is in its final position. Where installation proves difficult, a precast unit must not be reduced in length such that the specified minimum bearing length is not achieved at one or both ends. The Building Designer must ensure that all working drawings and specifications convey any special design requirements to the Installer, such as special fixing techniques or sequence of work, or temporary measures, e.g. braces, props. This information should be incorporated onto the Installer’s drawings by the Precast Designer. These special design requirements should be clearly highlighted on the drawings. Cantilevers do not usually present a problem as long as they are installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instruction drawing. However, if units are to be installed to a cantilevered area of flooring, then the design, and working drawings, must pay attention to counterbalances, and the sequence in which these are to be installed. Any propping that may be necessary during construction must also be clearly indicated on the installation drawings (including at what stage in the installation process) and must be designed and installed by Competent Persons provided by the Contractor. The cantilever end of any precast member must also be distinctly marked on the unit at the factory to avoid incorrect placing or fixing.

4.5 Installation of precast concrete floors onto steelwork The following should be considered when installing onto steelwork: All steelwork must be fully secured prior to installing any flooring units. This includes all steelwork that is above or may risk being contacted by any lifting equipment or accessories for lifting. The steelwork shall be designed to resist out of balance torsion (mid span twisting or buckling, and/or end rotation off the bearing) during the construction phase. This effect can occur when only one side of the beam is loaded out. The minimum bearing lengths in accordance with the recommendations set out in the relevant design standards must be met at all times. To allow for manufacturing and construction tolerances it is recommended that the minimum bearing length provided for the precast unit is 75 mm. Where flooring units are to be installed on shelf angles within beams or within a slim floor system, the ends should be suitably treated to facilitate the safe installation. This can be achieved via notched ends or sloping ends. The length of the units should be designed to allow a 25 mm clearance gap between the end of the unit and the supporting steelwork. (The support steelwork should be assessed by calculation for the worst case load position – i.e., at the tip of a shelf angle cantilever.) Where shear studs for composite action or progressive collapse requirements are provided then the bearing length shall be adjusted accordingly. Temporary bracing to the steel frame should be considered to account for the lack of floor diaphragm action whilst the infill concrete between the units (and at the bearing ends) is being placed and with adequate time allowed for it to cure before removing it. The bearing surfaces should be clean, level and free of debris.

4.6 Installation of precast concrete floors onto masonry The following good practice applies to all types of masonry used in construction of cavity walls: In all installations where traditional mortar is used and where the inner leaf of the cavity is less than 190 mm thick (less than 140mm in the case of clay block structural walling and thin joint systems), it is strongly recommended that the outer leaf is constructed so

24 Relative heightofinnerandoutermasonryleaves,includinglocationbrickties. Figure 4.1 maximum stabilitycanbeachievedduringtheconstructionphase(Figure 4.1). Both leavesshouldhavecured mortarpriortoprecast unitinstallation.Thisissothat bricktieiswithin225mmofthebearingheightinnerleaf. that theuppermost with safetychainsshouldbe used. systems unlessapproved bythePrincipaldesigner. Where possibleliftingpins/points Barring ofprecast onthin-jointmasonry floorelementsshouldnotbepermitted with inputfrom theblockmanufacturer. their useissubjecttostrictstabilitychecksbythePrincipal DesignerandEngineer Thin-joint masonryandclayblockstructuralwallingsystems are available.However, should besetouttoavoidverticaljointsliningupin adjacent courses(Figure 4.2). recommendations. Theyshouldbebedded ontoafullblockandtheblockwork Pressed steellintelsmustbeinstalledinaccordance withthelintelmanufacturer’s manufacturer's datasheetonthemortarproduct. conditions, intheuseofretarded andlimemortar. Reference shouldbemadetothe achieves sufficientstrength. Care shouldbetaken,especiallyininclementweather as permanufacturinginstructionsmustbeallowedsothatthesupportingstructure allmortarsandthinjointadhesives/proprietary mortars,sufficientcuringtime With positioning oftheflooringsysteminconstructionphase. Inner non-loadbearingwallsshouldbeleftatleastonecoursedowntoassistwiththe availability ofandusecoursingblocks. of thesystem.Guidanceshouldbesoughtfrom thesupplierofmasonryon coursing blocksunlesstheflooringsystemisspecifiedusingaspart The topbearingcourseshouldbeconstructedwithfullblocksandnotcutor construction phasewhilstpositioningheavyprecast components. that dueconsiderationhasbeengiventothemore onerous forces duringthe Consideration shouldbegivenandapproval soughtfrom theEngineertoconfirm y y y y systems, suchasPorotherm: Where theinnerleafisconstructedfrom aminimum140mmthick,thin-jointmasonry should alsobeobserved. The guidancenotescovered inFigures 4.2to4.5regarding lintelsandsteelwork y y y y Generally, unrestrained wallsshould belimitedtoamaximumlengthof6m. The heightoftheblockworkisnogreater than2.7mforeachstorey. installed, withamaximumof4storeys overall. A maximumof2storeys isconstructedatanyonetimebefore theouterleafis by theEngineerwhoisresponsible fortheoverallproject. The strength oftheblockworkandoveralltemporarystabilitymustbechecked 225 mm Max. 225 mm Gr eater than 4 25 FLOORING CODE: DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS Lintel bears onto Blocks split full width blocks at bearing level

Perp. joints staggered Joints incorrect, resulting in line by at least 75 mm through which failure could occur

Figure 4.2 Use of blocks above and below lintels

Pressed steel lintels over openings of 900 mm or above should be pre-propped to prevent the lintel from deflecting and rotating during the construction phase (Figure 4.3). This requirement is in line with the steel lintel manufacturer’s guidelines. This propping is not necessarily required for standard concrete lintels.

Lintels should be designed with the construction phase loading in mind, as this type of lintel does not achieve full load capability until construction is complete. Prop inner leaf

Figure 4.3 Propping of steel lintels

Steel section lintels should be firmly secured by the contractor to padstones set onto the blockwork. Ties down the wall should be used in vulnerable conditions such as isolated piers. Where it will be loaded unequally, the lintel may require additional temporary support to prevent rotation during the installation of precast floor units (Figure 4.4).

Figure 4.4 Fixing steel to padstones set on blockwork

26 When installingfloorsonloadbearingwalls less than190mmthick(Figure 4.7): Support forwalllessthan190mmthick Figure 4.6 Fixing ofisolatedsteels Figure 4.5 y torsional collapseduringtheconstructionphase. the installationanddesignshouldbecheckedfortemporaryloadingtoavoid when loadingsare appliedtothebeamononesideonly. Fixingsshouldnothinder the precast floorunits(Figure 4.5).Thisoutofbalancetorsionaleffect mayoccur where the‘fixed’steelbeamsare likelytotorsionallyde flect duringinstallationof Isolated steelsmustbefixedandtemporarypropping shouldalsobeincorporated bearing widthandcarrythefloorreaction intheeventofabearingfailure. propping arrangementandtimberrunnersshouldalsobedesignedtoincrease contact witheachsideofthewalltoprovide fulllateralsupport(Figure 4.6).The runners shouldbepositionedapproximately 5mmbelowbearinglevelandintight and installedbyCompetentPersons(otherthantheflooringInstaller).Timber propping orothermeansofbearingenhancementshouldbeemployed,designed Before installing floorsonloadbearingwallslessthan190mmthink,temporary must befullybondedortiedin. Where loadbearingwallintersectswithotherwalls,thejoints aninternal The bearingsurfaceshouldbeclean,levelandfree from mortarsnots. Building Designermayneedtoconsideradditionaltemporarysupport. consideration asthesecanbeweakpointsduringtheconstructionphase.The Narrow sections ofwalls(lessthan900mm)orpiersshouldbegivenspecial or code. All walltiesmustbeinplaceandinstalledaccordance withtherelevant standards y to topofwall Lateral r precast slabs. Bearing platetobelaidon amortarbedbyMainContractorbefore installationof estraint Fixed andpr o pped needle T imber runner/ of torsionalr Rotating duetolack estraint 4 27 FLOORING CODE: DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS yyBlockwork to be built 20 mm lower at bearing plate locations to allow for mortar bed and bearing plate depth. yyFlooring units must be installed on alternate bays. yyWhen landing on a bearing plate, installer must ensure that the slab is landed on centre of bearing plate. yyShorter span to be installed first.

200 mm 100 mm 2 rows of bottom lugs per plate, 500 staggered at mm 1000 150 mm mm 20 mm 500 200 mm mm Blockwork to be Bearing plate to 50 mm laid 20 mm lower be laid on 20 mm mortar bed 150 100 150 mm mm mm 140 –190 mm Plan Section

a) TypicalTypical sectionsection detail b) BearingBearing plate detail plate wheredetail slabswher eshare slabs a shar 140e mma 140 wall mm wall

Figure 4.7 Fixing floor to wall less than 190 mm wide

4.6.1 General notes for the Building Designer The Building Designer should consider adding the following notes to his drawings: Cement mortars – allow 3 to 7 days for masonry mortar to cure before loading out. Lime and retarded mortars – always check curing times with manufacturer or supplier. With all mortars and thin joint adhesives/proprietary mortars, sufficient curing time as per manufacturing instructions must be allowed so that the supporting structure achieves sufficient strength. Care should be taken, especially in inclement weather conditions, in the use of retarded and lime mortar. Reference should be made to the manufacturer's data sheet on the mortar product.

4.7 Imposed loads during the construction phase In addition to the self-weight of the floor units, other loads may be imposed during the installation operation. These loads must be anticipated at the design stage and be considered when selecting unit types and layouts. With beam and block systems, the weight of blocks being loaded for installation must be assessed, and any prohibitions, or special requirements to accommodate such loads, must be clearly highlighted by the Precast Designer on their drawings. When screeds or structural toppings are required, the imposed loads must be anticipated by both the Building Designer and the Precast Designer and special provisions clearly noted. Both permanent, and temporary construction, imposed design loadings for the floor should be stated on the drawings and must not be exceeded during the construction works. Approval should be sought from the Company prior to the storage by following trades of unfixed materials on floors.

4.8.1 4.8 Handrails tostairsandlandings arrangements withtheotherparties: the followingpointstoensure thatthespecifiedmethodispracticalandagree The ContractorshouldliaisewiththePrecast Installer/Precast Designerandconsider The Contractorshouldundertakecareful planningatpre-contract anddesignstage. residual risksandachieveasafesystemofwork. is notalwaysachievable.Where othermethodsare usedtheymustmitigateandcontrol immediately usedforsafeaccesstodifferent levels.However, itisrecognised that this ground levelonsite,avoidingtheneedtoworkatheight,andstairscanthenbe The installationofthehandrailwilltherefore becarriedoutfrom asaferposition,i.e. landing isliftedintoitsfinalposition. and themethodoffixinghandrailtoastairflightlandingbefore theflightor It isconsidered goodpracticefortheBuildingDesignertospecifyatypeofhandrail The followingmustalsobeconsidered: ensure thestructure remains stableatalltimes. temporarily propped orjackedfloors,asafesystemofworkmustbedevelopedto Where itcanbeanticipatedthatstabilitywillnotguaranteed,asinthecaseof installation oftheprecast units. the removal andreplacement operations,bywayofanAttendance,toensure thesafe relevant Engineers,ContractorsandSub-contractors.TheContractorisresponsible for structural stabilitymustbemaintainedandtheBuildingDesignerliaisewith If theremoval ofanystructuralmemberisnecessarytofacilitatetheinstallation, materials onthefloors. installation ofprecast flooringandcomponents,includingthetemporarystackingof The stabilityofthesupportingstructures mustnotbeadverselyaffected bythe Stability ofsupportingstructure duringinstallation agreed withthe appropriate BuildingDesigner/Speci fier. Contractor toensure that,afterfillingofanyholes,theconcrete finishhasbeen Designer. Position offixinganddesign fixing forhandrailstobeagreed with thePrecast i.e. Scaffolder. Contractor tocoordinate othertradestobeinattendanceasrequired, installation. Contractor toarrangeworksothatitiscarriedout theagreed sequenceof required athigherlevels? thehandrailsoninstalledunits clashwithanysubsequentfallprotection Will Can thehandrailsbeadequatelysecured forsafeliftingintoposition? attached? Can thestairsandlandingsbesafelylowered intopositionwiththehandrails the Precast Designeronthesematters. issues relating tothesupportingstructure. Adviceandapproval maybesoughtfrom during installationoftheprecast flooring/componentandanypotentialinstability The BuildingDesignermustundertakeanassessmentoftheriskslikelytooccur construction tolerancestoensure minimumbearinglengthsare achieved. working condition.TheBuildingDesignermusttakeintoaccountmanufacturingand Construction loadingarrangements/forces maybemore onerous thanthefinal of fixingprecast concrete components,particularlythemethodoffinalalignment. When designingbearings,considerationmustbegiventothestandard method Persons provided bytheContractor, priortothePrecast Companyarrivingonsite. All temporaryworksmusthavebeencorrectly designedandinstalledbyCompetent 4 29 FLOORING CODE: DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS 4.9 The Health and Safety File The Precast Company will provide ‘as installed’ drawings at completion of the installation, showing any changes from the original floor layout. Thereafter, the Contractor will be responsible for recording departures from the as installed drawings. The flooring layout drawings will detail the loads for which the floors have been designed. Care should be exercised to ensure that during both the Construction Phase and during the life of the building, the design loads are not exceeded and that further holes or chases are not made in the flooring without reference to the Company. Where subsequent structural alteration or demolition is proposed, advice and approval should be sought from a Competent Person, with access to the Health and Safety File.

4.10 Other construction methods The PFF acknowledges that there are many other Modern Methods of Construction that are not considered as part of this Code of Practice. Advice relating to any other forms of construction not covered can be obtained from the PFF Technical Committee.

5.3 5.2 5.1 5.4 OTATRS RESPONSIBILITIES CONTRACTOR’S 5 operations. temporary handrailingtoensure thatprotection ismaintainedforallsubsequent The Contractorisresponsible fortheupkeep,adaptationandfinalremoval ofthe consulting theCompany. cutting anddrillingtheprecast concrete units;thismustnothappenwithoutfirst progression offollowingtrades.Otherdamagethat frequently occursiscausedby In mostcases,damagesustainedtoflooringunitsiscausedbyimpactduringthe being theresponsibility oftheContractor. this timethefloormayrequire weatherprotection, theprovision ofsuchprotection recommended thataminimumcuringperiodof72hoursshouldbeallowed.During generally beinan‘uncured’ condition.Whilstthegrout isnotalwaysstructural,it when theprecast flooringinstallersleavethesite,grouting (where applicable)will Any grouting shouldbecarriedoutinaccordance withSection12.3.1.Atthetime thereof, hasbeencompleted,unlessotherwiseagreed. from the timewhenthephysicalinstallationofsub-contractworks,oranysection The Contractorisdeemedtoacceptresponsibility fortheprotection ofprecast units the works. Building Designerandotherspecialistsuppliers/sub-contractorsisincorporatedinto is incorporatedintoworksbyothertradesand,where necessary, theguidanceof The Contractorisresponsible forensuringthatguidancewithinthisCodeofPractice the CompanyRepresentative duringthepre-start sitevisit. installation worksbyreading thisCodeofPracticeandtakingnoteissuesraisedby The Contractormustfamiliarisethemselveswiththesafetyaspectsofprecast concrete Principal Contractorthatare relevant totheirwork. the planisagreed theContractormustfollowpartsofplanprepared bythe the effectiveness oftheconstructionphaseplaninmanagingrisksinvolved.Once The ContractorshouldliaisewiththePrincipaltopassontheirviews for deteriorationthrough usage andweather. The Contractormustalsomaintainandupgradetheseattendanceitemstocompensate provided bytheContractor. requirements necessitatedbythenature ofthesiteorcontractworks,are tobe attached totheCompany’s quotation.These,togetherwithanyadditionalspecific Safety andWelfare AppendixAtothisCodeofPractice), Attendances(whichform The flooringsub-contractorwillprovide theContractorwithacopyofPFFHealth, Prevention ofdamagetoprecast units Management ofconstructionworks Attendances Handrailing toprecast stairunits 5 31 FLOORING CODE: CONTRACTOR’S RESPONSIBILITIES Page left blank intentionally

32 6 COMPANY REPRESENTATIVE’S ROLE 6

Prior to any installation work, the Company Representative will visit the site to identify any site-specific hazards and establish a safe system of work in agreement with the Contractor.

6.1 Agreed sequence of installation The Company Representative will liaise with the Contractor at the site to agree the sequence in which precast flooring units are to be installed with reference to building plot numbers, floor levels, building types, grid references, etc. Should it be necessary for the installation sequence to be varied, for whatever reason, this should be implemented only after reference to the Company, Contractor and Building Designer, and after all safety requirements have been satisfied. If deemed necessary, the Safe Working Method Statement should be amended by an addendum to cover the revision agreed.

6.2 Method of lifting In cases where the Contractor has ordered the supply and installation of precast flooring the Company will provide the Appointed Person for lifting operations. Unless otherwise agreed, they will be chosen according to training, knowledge and experience. If necessary, in liaison with crane hire representatives, the Company Representative will decide upon the type of lifting plant and equipment to be employed in the installation of each specific contract, taking into account the weight of components to be lifted, the radius of lifting, any special handling requirements, and site constraints as advised by the Contractor – including access and ground conditions. The Contractor and the Appointed Person will discuss and advise upon the type and size of delivery lorries and craneage, in order that the Contractor will make provision for adequate access and hardstandings, or other facilities that may be required to accommodate delivery and lifting equipment. The Appointed Person must also bring to the attention of the Contractor any factors likely to hinder the lifting operations, e.g. aerial obstructions, proximity hazards, stacked materials or earthworks, in order that a safe system of work and/or control measures can be agreed. After reaching a decision upon the lifting arrangements, the Appointed Person should provide a record, including the agreed hardstanding positions, ground bearing pressure requirements, roadways, agreed offloading positions and any storage areas. A duplicate should be handed to the Foreman before work is commenced. If at any time subsequent to the Company’s initial choice, the design is altered so causing component weights to vary from those originally envisaged, the Precast Designer must

inform the Appointed Person who must ensure that the crane or lifting equipment is still ROLE REPRESENTATIVE’S FLOORING CODE: COMPANY adequate. During the routine pre-contract visit, the Appointed Person must ensure that the site constraints observed or anticipated at the time when the crane or lifting equipment was selected, have not changed and will not change. If change has occurred, or can be anticipated, the Appointed Person must again ensure that the crane or lifting equipment is adequate. The Contractor and Building Designer must be notified of any changes. It is the Contractor’s responsibility to ensure the provision and maintenance of suitable ground bearing conditions for the planned lifting operations. This includes crane platforms and haul routes. In any instance where the crane or lifting equipment is changed from the original, the Appointed Person must be advised, and the Contractor’s Site Representative informed, of such change, in order that access, standing areas, or other measures are amended as deemed necessary. An Appointed Person will amend the lift plan accordingly and submit to the Contractor.

33 If the Contractor provides the craneage (i.e. tower crane) and lift planning, he must also provide an Appointed Person for the lifting operations. The company Representative must provide the Contractor with all relevant information, e.g. component weights, and agree offloading positions.

6.3 Site access The Company must agree with the Contractor the access from the public highway onto site, including the possible need for temporary or long-term removal of any fences, walls or other obstructions. See also Appendix A, sections 1.5 and 1.6. The condition of the agreed access roads must at all times be maintained or improved by the Contractor to an acceptable standard. Whilst making these arrangements, the locations of, and access to, stacking areas, stores, temporary buildings and lorry/trailer holding areas must be agreed. Arrangements should be made to ensure any delivery vehicles and craneage can be marshalled from the public highway onto the site safely. Any persons tasked with marshalling vehicles onto and off the site must have received suitable training and instruction on how to undertake the role safely. On agreement of the provisions, a written record must be issued to the Contractor. The agreed access and other arrangements must then be incorporated into the Work Method Statement, in order that all parties will have the information readily available and to avoid misunderstandings or confusion when the floor installation commences. Access into the building(s) as construction progresses must be agreed together with protection on and around the flooring in accordance with the requirements of the PFF Standard Health, Safety and Welfare Attendances (Appendix A), issued at tender stage. Particular attention should be paid to barriers, guardrails/handrails, toe-boards, access, lighting and similar precautions. The Precast Company must monitor the provision of these Attendances during the period of the site works.

6.4 Attendances liaison The Contractor should be aware of the Precast Company’s general requirements with regard to Attendances, having received the PFF Health, Safety and Welfare Attendances as specified in Appendix A to this Code of Practice. The Company Representative should discuss the general requirements with the Contractor in order to agree more specific Attendances that reflect the nature of the site and the contract works. All agreements reached between the Company Representative and the Contractor’s Site Representative must be confirmed either in writing or by inclusion on a marked-up record, copies being held by both parties to the agreement. Prior to the precast component installation, the Contractor should ensure the suitability of bearings provided for the flooring, in accordance with the construction drawings and this Code of Practice.

6.5 Supervision of installation An Appointed Person or his delegated Crane Supervisor (in the case of a basic or standard lifting operation) should attend site on the first day of installation and prior to any work being started, to carry out lift plan briefing to the Foreman and installation team, paying particular attention to any special problems or conditions relative to the Safe Working Method Statement. Whilst on site the Company Representative should satisfy himself that the Contractor’s Attendance items have been satisfactorily provided and ensure that the Foreman is fully aware of the Contractor’s and Sub-contractor’s obligations.

34 manner andthatallAttendancescontinuetobeprovided. throughout thecontract,toensure thatinstallationisproceeding inasafeandproper It isessentialfortheCompanyRepresentativepoints tocallonsiteatintermediate those dutiesare delegatedwillthenassumethedutiesofCraneSupervisor. basic orstandard, theAppointedPerson’s dutiescanbedelegated.Thepersontowhom Only wherethatthegeneralliftingoperationsare theAppointedPersonhasdetermined should overseethecompleteinstallation. length oftimewiththeinstallationteam.Incertaincases,CompanyRepresentative On contractsofacomplexnature aCompanyRepresentative shouldspendagreater 6 35 FLOORING CODE: COMPANY REPRESENTATIVE’S ROLE Page left blank intentionally

36 7 FOREMAN’S ROLE 7

7.1 Working to sequence Prior to the arrival of the installation team, a sequence for on-site installation must have been agreed, in the form of a Safe Working Method Statement, with records kept on site and a copy handed to the Foreman. It is the responsibility of the Foreman to ensure adherence to the agreed sequence. This sequence should be discussed with the installation team to ensure their understanding of the sequence. In circumstances where a deviation from the sequence is unavoidable, the Foreman must seek advice and approval before altering the sequence, either by referring back to the Company, or to the Company Representative responsible for that contract.

7.2 Pre-start checks Before commencing the installation of any precast units, the Foreman must satisfy himself that the Attendances agreed for that contract are available and of a satisfactory standard in accordance with the Safe Working Method Statement. Where possible such a pre-start check should be conducted together with the Contractor’s Site Representative. If any item is found to be inadequate or missing, the Foreman must highlight the problem with the Contractor’s Site Representative and, if necessary, delay the installation until Attendances are satisfactory. In such circumstances, the Foreman must fully acquaint his head office with the situation. The Foreman must ensure, by inspection prior to the installation, that the bearings provided for the precast units (including those on steelwork) are visually satisfactory.

This inspection should also include a visual assessment of the steel framed building to FLOORING CODE: FOREMAN’S ROLE identify any obvious hazards that may be apparent. It is preferable, and contractually prudent, that the Foreman should be accompanied by the Contractor’s Site Representative during these inspections. However, it is essential that the Foreman carries out these inspections, and reaches his decisions based on his inspections regardless of the presence or the absence of the Contractor’s Site Representative. The Foreman should ensure any deviation from the provision of fall protection detailed in the Safe Working Method, is reviewed, approved and documented by the Company prior to implementation.

7.3 Supervision of installation Where it has been determined that the general lifting operations are basic or standard, the Foreman may be delegated by the Appointed Person to assume the duties of Crane Supervisor, providing he is suitably qualified and competent. The Foreman to whom those duties are delegated will then assume the duties of Crane Supervisor. In all cases, the Foreman is responsible for the actual installation of the precast units. On contracts where the Company Representative oversees the installation, the overall responsibility for the installation team and their actions still remains with the Foreman. The Company Representative should give instructions to the Foreman only. The delegation of specific tasks within the team is the responsibility of the Foreman, who must be satisfied that the person to whom the task is assigned has the skills, knowledge, experience and training to carry out that work safely. Before placing any units the Foreman must ensure that the crane (where applicable) is operating in a safe and proper manner, and that the Crane Driver is fully aware of the nature of the work and can identify and understand the Slinger/Signaller.

37 Consideration should be given to ensuring the Slinger/Signaller is easily identifiable by the use of a different coloured vest, safety helmet or other easily identifiable measure in order to reduce the likelihood of the Crane Driver mistaking him for another operative. Where the Foreman has concerns regarding the adequacy of the bearings and/or the structural integrity of the building, he must seek advice and instruction from the Company Representative. During the course of the installation, the Foreman must check the adequacy of the bearings; any variation or deterioration, from whatever cause, must be brought to the attention of the Contractor’s Site Representative. Work must be suspended if the bearings are deemed unacceptable. During the installation of the precast units the Foreman must ensure that correct handling and placing procedures are being adhered to, and that all aspects of the work are being executed in a safe and proper manner, in accordance with the Safe Working Method Statement and Working Drawings. The Foreman must also check the dimensional accuracy of the individual units and the accuracy of setting out of the floor, ensuring that all units correspond with the Working Drawings. No variations to the design or design details and no remedial works should be carried out without the prior approval of the Precast Designer and the Building Designer. No change to the construction method or sequence should occur without the prior approval of the Precast Designer, the Building Designer, the Contractor and the Company Representative. When the installation of the floor is complete or any section of the floor which that visit covers, the Foreman together with the Contractor’s Site Representative should physically inspect the work. Should any damaged or improperly fixed components be present these should be replaced or repaired as soon as is reasonably practicable, after reference by the Foreman to his Company. The Foreman must also coordinate and monitor other site personnel involved with the precast installation works, such as fall protection Operatives and delivery drivers.

7.4 Workmanship Units should be fixed strictly in accordance with the Working Drawings. No ‘unspecified’ works of any type, including remedial works, should be carried out without the prior approval of the Precast Designer, the Building Designer, the Contractor and the Contractor’s Representative. If approved and carried out, it must be recorded by the Company. The Foreman must ensure that the Work Area is kept clean and tidy, so far as this is reasonably practicable, and at the end of the working day the area should be left free of debris. Materials must be safely stacked. After the floor is installed, the Foreman will advise the Contractor’s Site Representative that the work is completed and request an inspection prior to leaving site. During this period a checklist will be completed and a copy will be left on site. Where approved variations to the design or construction method have been carried out, these should be recorded on the completion sheet checklist and signed by the Contractors Site Representative. Any outstanding works to be completed should also be identified on the document with specific reference to the parts of the structure where the work is required, details of the work required and who is responsible for undertaking the work.

38 8 TRANSPORTATION OF COMPONENTS 8 AND ACCESS TO SITE

8.1 The stacking and making secure of loads The fundamental concerns when loading delivery vehicles must be to ensure an even weight distribution and load stability. When considering the loading of precast components, it is important that the loading arrangements allow the maximum protection against damage or breaking. Cut widths or slabs that have detail, such as holes, may need to be placed at the top of the load to avoid damage during transportation. Components must have bearers placed at correct positions along their length, in accordance with the Company’s recommendations. Where components are stacked in layers of more than one high, the bearers to each layer should line through vertically, to avoid shear planes. Precast floor planks usually need to be supported on bearers that are close to the ends of the planks. This is to prevent the overhang experiencing tensile stress that can cause the unit to crack. When loaded, the units must be properly and adequately secured to the vehicle, to prevent movement during transit, particular attention being paid to loose items. Measures must be taken to prevent individual concrete blocks or fragments and angles or timber falling from the vehicle. Additional information can also be sought from the BPDWG website (http://bpdwg. co.uk/BPDWG/Welcome.html).

8.2 Loading sequence From the point of view of safety during the installation operation, it is important that components are loaded so that unloading may be carried out in the appropriate sequence. However, this must never be at the expense of the safe transit of the complete load and therefore some double handling may be required at the point of installation. Stacking of precast components on site must also be in line with the designer’s storage rules.

8.3 Site access Before a vehicle arrives on site, the access from the highway onto and around the site should have been agreed between the Company Representative and the Contractor, taking into account the site traffic management plan. The Foreman should have checked access suitability with the Contractor’s Site Representative upon

commencement of work on site. OF COMPONENTS AND ACCESS TO SITE TRANSPORTATION

A nominated member of the installation team should act as Signaller or Banksman to supervise and assist in the positioning of the delivery vehicle both on and off site. Notwithstanding the above, the final acceptance of the access suitability will remain with the vehicle driver, and in these circumstances the driver must satisfy himself before entering the site that his vehicle can travel safely on the access provided. In all cases the driver must not remove any securing ropes, chains, or tarpaulins until his vehicle is at rest in the area agreed for unloading. In the event of a trailer being uncoupled and left on site for unloading purposes, all devices to prevent movement should be in place e.g. trailer braking systems, wheel chocks. Consideration should be given to ground loadings and suitability of the hardstanding area if trailers are to be left on site. FLOORING CODE:

39 8.4 Off-loading The Installer must ensure that the correct lifting equipment is available on site to offload components and must also visually inspect cast-in fittings and components to ensure that no damage has occurred in transit. Components must be unloaded in such a manner that the stability of the delivery vehicle is not adversely affected. Ensure the delivery driver is in a position of safety during the unloading sequence. When components are taken straight from the vehicle to their fixing position, care must be taken to ensure that any loose packing or protective materials have been removed and that any fittings are secure. In rare circumstances where components may have to be lifted or pass over the cab of a delivery vehicle, the Installer must ensure that the driver leaves the cab and remains in a safe position outside an agreed exclusion zone, until advised by the Foreman that the lifting operations have ended. The Company Representative should ensure that delivery drivers are equipped with necessary PPE. Where proprietary cast-in lifting anchors are provided in the units, all anchors must be used strictly in accordance with the anchor manufacturer’s recommendations and Company procedures. Any specialist lifting equipment, e.g. grabs, must be used strictly in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations. Where proprietary lifting systems are not provided, choke-hitched chains or slings should be positioned between 150 mm and 300 mm in from the ends, unless specific permission has been received from the Precast component manufacturer. Lifting chains or slings should be of sufficient length so that the included angle is not greater than 90º (45º from vertical) unless otherwise agreed by the Appointed Person (Figure 8.1). In situations where limited headroom is available the Appointed Person must ensure that the lift is planned so as to maintain a maximum of 90° at the included angle. 90° maximum Special consideration may be needed for cantilever units where weight distribution is uneven. Non-standard units that do not have even weight distribution across their 150 mm min. / 300 mm max. length require additional support whilst lifting. These should be identified by the Figure 8.1 flooring designer with slinging and lifting Use of slings where proprietary lifting systems instructions in the lift plan, and any unusual are not provided slinging points preferably marked on the components involved, e.g., by colour coded spray paint. 8.5 Inspection of precast concrete flooring and other components prior to offload and/or installation

Every precast floor, balcony or stair unit must be inspected before lifting from the delivery transport and/or stockpile on site for obvious signs of damage, e.g., hairline cracks (especially on the plank edge), debonded reinforcement that has contracted into the plank end leaving a hole; and complete failure that could collapse or drop pieces if lifted. Where a unit is deemed to be damaged, the Foreman must telephone the Company for advice, contacting a person competent to make the decision, on what action should be taken in respect of the damaged unit.

40 all areas havebeensufficientlygrouted. all unitshaveadequatebearingandthat a checkmustalsobemadetoensure that addition tothedefectsconsidered above, area ishandedovertotheContractor. In units havebeeninstalledandbefore the inspection mustalsotakeplaceafterthe the Foreman isindoubt.Afurthervisual Company contactedinanycasewhen correct bearingcanbeachievedandthe must bemeasured toensure thatthe Before removing chains,components Lifting pointswithsafetychains Figure 8.2 8 41 FLOORING CODE: TRANSPORTATION OF COMPONENTS AND ACCESS TO SITE Page left blank intentionally

42 9 ON-SITE STORAGE OF COMPONENTS 9

9.1 Stacking at ground level The guidelines for stacking components will generally be similar to those contained in the Section 8, Transportation of components and access to site. In addition to the precautions to be observed when stacking, e.g. the position of bearers, care must be taken to ensure that the ground or surface on which the components are to be stacked is suitable. The ground must be firm and level, and wherever possible stacking of components should be on firm hard-core or oversite concrete. The height to which components can be safely stacked on site will be greatly influenced by the condition of the ground on which they bear. Another prime consideration should be the height to which a man can reach to pass lifting chains or slings around the components.

Correct position of bearers 300 mm from end

Bearers should Larger line through bearer Maximum height vertically at base to chest height

Ground condition will influence number of components ON-SITE STORAGE OF COMPONENTS

Figure 9.1 Correct stacking method

Similar length beams should be stacked together. The need to climb onto stacked components to secure chains or other means of lifting must be avoided. For stacking planned in advance, the Company’s Representative must specify the type and location of stacking areas to the Contractor, at the time when site access is agreed. However, when unplanned stacking arises, the Foreman should liaise with the Contractor’s Site Representative to find the most suitable stacking area, or to agree other arrangements. If the units are to be left stacked for any length of time, consideration should be given

to the practicalities and sequence of their subsequent fixing. To avoid additional FLOORING CODE: handling or transport hazards, units should be stacked as near as possible to their final fixed positions. In instances where doubt exists concerning any aspect of site stacking, the Foreman or Company’s Representative must refer back to the Company before allowing units to be stacked. When destacking each flooring unit should again be checked to ensure it is structurally sound and undamaged.

9.2 Temporary storage on installed flooring Unfixed components should be stacked at ground level but, in exceptional circumstances on sites with limited space, or where the type of construction does not allow stacking at ground level, components may have to be temporarily stored on top of the incomplete floor or previously fixed components.

43 Where this is planned, the Precast Designer and Building Designer must take due consideration of the resulting imposed loads, and the stability of the structure, especially lintels over openings. This action will be the subject of a Design Risk Assessment and Safe Working Method Statement prior to the commencement on site by the Company. When unplanned storage occurs, the Foreman will liaise with the Contractor’s Site Representative, the Building Designer and the Precast Designer to agree an acceptable method. In most circumstances the following measures should be considered to ensure minimum risk: All loads should be lowered gently onto the floor, avoiding sudden impact, which may cause damage. When components are being stacked, bearers should run at 90° to the span of the floor on which they bear. Wherever possible, bearers should be placed above the wall or bearing supporting the precast flooring. Where a number of components are to be stored, refer to the Engineer for specific instructions. The Foreman should liaise with the Contractor’s Site Representative to ensure that no further loads are placed on floors already carrying other stacked components, e.g. bricks, blocks, other building materials or plant. To avoid damage, cut width or components that have detail such as holes should be placed at the top of stacked components or separately. Where infill blocks are not loaded on pallets they should be stacked on sheet plywood or similar material to prevent the fracture of fixed infill blocks. Also, infill blocks should not be stacked at mid-span but should be placed above the bearing walls, or similar, to ensure good load distribution. Units must not be stacked on partially constructed steel frames or structures or in areas that allow for displacement through accidental contact with the units.

44 10 10 SAFE USE OF CRANES, FORK LIFTS AND OTHER LIFTING EQUIPMENT

10.1 Introduction The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) require that lifting equipment provided for use at work is: Strong, stable and marked with safe working loads. Correctly used. Used safely. Subject to on-going review. The Regulations also require that lifting operations are: Planned, supervised and carried out safely by people who are competent. Controlled, i.e. all documents are checked and in order. The Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 Approved Code of Practice (ACoP) refer to BS 7121 Code of Practice for the safe use of cranes: Part 1 General and Part 3 Mobile cranes as the standard that should be adopted. It is in the interests of all parties involved in lifting operations that they are carried out efficiently and safely. The ACoP ensures that everyone involved in a lifting operation is aware of their responsibilities. This Precast Flooring Federation Code of Practice covers all the work involved in handling and positioning concrete products.

10.2 Management of the lifting operation During preliminary site visit(s) a safe system of work must be established by the Appointed Person, and recorded in the form of a Safe Working Method Statement. This must be followed for every lifting operation or a group of repetitive operations. This principle applies to all lifting operations. Lifting equipment must be positioned or installed in such a way as to reduce, to as low a level as is reasonably practicable, the risk of the equipment or load striking a person and the risk of the load drifting, falling freely or being released unintentionally. The safe system of work for crane operations must include the following: Planning of the operation including risk assessments must be carried out by a Competent Person. This should include ensuring that the lifting operation is adequately supervised and carried out in a safe manner. Selection, provision and use of suitable crane(s) and equipment. FLOORING CODE: SAFE USE OF LIFTING EQUIPMENT Ground conditions must be examined, including access, working and adjacent areas. Particular attention must be paid to: yyTrenches, cellars and basements. yyUnderground services. yyRamps, slopes, edges and uneven ground. yyWater attenuation tanks Positioning of the lifting equipment to ensure the safety of those working with the equipment and those who may be affected by its operation. This includes eliminating trapping points or preventing access to them by persons. Verifying that crane(s) and ancillary equipment are properly inspected and certificated. Provision of properly trained and Competent Personnel with the necessary authority who have been made aware of their relevant responsibilities under the Health and Safety at Work Act. BS 7121 defines roles and responsibilities.

45 Effective communications between all relevant parties. Preventing unauthorised use or movement of the crane. The safety of persons not involved in the lifting operation, including eliminating the need to lift the load over people. The lifting operation must be taken to include any necessary preparation, as well as installation and dismantling of the crane(s). The Safe Working Method Statement must be effectively communicated to all parties concerned.

10.3 Control of the lifting operation To ensure the implementation of the safe system of work, one person must be appointed to have overall control and responsibility of the lifting operation and to act on behalf of the Company. The appointment of this person does not remove any legal responsibility from the Employing Organisation but enables them to use his expertise to better fulfil their responsibilities. The person appointed may have other duties and need not be an employee of the Company. The Appointed Person must have adequate skills, knowledge, experience and training to enable these duties to be carried out competently. The duties of Appointed Persons for crane operations can vary in accordance with the complexity of the operation. The duties for a ‘basic lift’ are considerably fewer and less demanding than for a lift at a hazardous location. Hence, an Appointed Person employed for a ‘basic lift’ may not be suitably trained or experienced for a more complicated operation. Therefore, ‘complex lifts’ should be planned and supervised by a suitably competent Appointed Person in consultation with the crane hire company and the Contractor. The types of lift are defined below. Basic lift Lifting operation where the weight of the load(s) can be simply established, and there are no significant hazards within the area of the operation or on the access route to the working area. Standard lift Lifting operation where there are significant hazards, either within the working area of the crane or on the access route to the working area. Complex lift Lifting operation which includes cranes used for lifting complex loads, the lifting of persons, lifting the load with two or more cranes or when the lifting operation is at a location with exceptional hazards. Note: An example of a location with exceptional hazards is a chemical plant. Where the Appointed Person has determined that the General Lifting Operations are basic or standard, the duties, but not the responsibility for the lifting operation, can be delegated to a Competent Person who will then assume the duties of the Crane Supervisor. The Crane Supervisor, having been delegated as being in control, will have the authority to stop the lifting operation if it is considered to be unsafe to continue and refer to the Appointed Person. Where the Contractor provides the crane and the services of an Appointed Person, they must provide details of the lifting equipment that will be used, including configuration, duty charts, location relative to installation area, etc. The Company Representative will provide details to the Contractor’s Appointed Person of the weight of the products to be installed and agree an off-loading position. The Appointed Person and Crane Supervisor must be identified in the Method Statement. Prior to commencement of the works, the Contractor’s Site Representative must demonstrate to the Installer that the lifting operation has been adequately planned.

46 10.4.1 10.4 General Crane hire or contract lift contract or hire Crane to makedecisions aboutwhichcranetorequest andasneeded howtoensure thatground allowstheEmployingOrganisation on maximumoutrigger loads.Combining this information Designer andthePrincipalContractor). Thecraneownerisexpectedtoprovide information capacity, remains withthepartiesincontrol (usuallythePrincipal ofthe siteinformation Note: Responsibilityforground conditions,i.e.,surveyandassessmentoftheground bearing may alsoneedtobeclarifi ed. Note: Responsibilitiesforinsuranceofthecrane,personnel, theloadandthird parties has thenecessarycompetencetocarryoutwork. contract, EmployingOrganisations shouldsatisfythemselvesthattheliftingcontractor should nothire cranesbutshouldoptinsteadforacontract lift. Before enteringintoa If anindividualororganisation doesnothavetheexpertiseinliftingoperations they Figure 10.1 operation (ContractLift).Thedifference betweenthetwooptionsissummarisedin hiring acrane(Hired Crane)oremployingaliftingcontractortocarryoutthe be movedbycrane,whichdoesnothaveitsowncraneage,hastwobasicoptions: lifting operationsisnotcompromised. Ingeneral,anyorganisation requiring aloadto it isimportanttoensure that theplanning,organisation, control andmanagementof Given thewidevarietyofcontractualarrangementsusedinconstructionindustry, Organisation ofhired/contracted liftingoperations Figure 10.1 ¡ ¡ ¡ ¡ ¡

The Employing supplied and certification hir cr system ofworking operate asafe Appointed Person BS 7121 in accor type andcapacity hir Check the Ensur Plan theliftand Supply the Carry outallwork Or edentials ofthe e company ed isofsuitable ganisation should: e thatacrane dance with (Hir ed andmanaged) Hir ed Crane ¡ ¡ The or The CraneOwner

supervisor) or thelift Appointed Person contr (to workunderthe competent driver and certified maintained, tested that ispr Pr Pr has dutyto: ovide a ovide acrane ganisation r ol ofthe Employing Or operly equiring theloadtobemoved ganisation ¡ ¡ ¡

Or by theEmploying Lifting Contractor be pr and/or servicesto Appointed Person supply the Contractor isto BS 7121 accor be undertakenin Information That theLifting That allworkisto The Employing should specify: Or ganisation ganisation ovided tothe dance with (Fully contracted) Contracted Lift ¡ ¡ ¡

The Contractor contr safe systemofwork and operationofa Appointed Person operation Or Planning thelift Supplying the is r ganisation and esponsible ol ofthelifting for: 10 47 FLOORING CODE: SAFE USE OF LIFTING EQUIPMENT loadings are reduced, or ground capacity is increased. Organising this information may involve the Appointed Person working with the site engineer, or the information may be obtained early and passed to the Appointed Person to help them plan the lift.

10.4.2 Employing Organisation’s duties when hiring cranes When a crane is hired out together with an Operator to the Employing Organisation, the crane owner should provide a Competent Operator and a crane that is properly maintained, inspected and tested in accordance with BS 7121-2, and has a current report of thorough examination (12 monthly for lifting materials; 6 monthly for lifting persons). The Employing organisation retains the responsibility for nominating the Appointed Person and for following the recommendations given in the BS 7121 series. Despite any advice the Crane Owner might have offered concerning the selection of a particular crane or any other relevant matter, for example clearances or ground conditions, the responsibility for ensuring that the crane is of a suitable type, size and capacity for the task being undertaken and for planning the operation remains with the Employing Organisation. Therefore if an individual or organisation does not have expertise in lifting operations, they should not hire cranes but should opt for a contract lift.

10.4.3 Contract lifting operations The Employing Organisation may enter into a contract with a lifting contractor who undertakes work on their behalf. The parties to the contract should ensure that: All work is carried out in accordance with BS 7121 series. The lifting contractor appoints a competent Appointed Person to the satisfaction of the Employing Organisation. All information or services provided by the Employing Organisation to facilitate compliance with the BS 7121 series are notified to the lifting contractor in writing. The lifting contractor should carry out lifting operations in accordance with the BS 7121 series. The lifting contractor should be given full authority by the Employing Organisation to work in accordance with the BS 7121 series including, where appropriate, authority to control and instruct the Employing Organisation’s personnel. Before entering into a contract, Employing Organisations should ensure that the lifting contractor has the necessary competence to carry out the work in accordance with the BS 7121 series.

10.5 Planning the lifting operation 10.5.1 General All lifting operations should be planned to ensure that they are carried out safely and that all foreseeable risks have been taken into account. Planning should be carried out by an Appointed Person who has the appropriate knowledge for the lift being undertaken. In cases of repetitive or routine basic lifting operations, this planning might only be necessary in the first instance, with periodic reviews to ensure that no factors have changed. Planning of the lifting operation should take into account: The load, its characteristics and the method of lifting. The selection of a suitable crane(s) appropriate to the operation ensuring that adequate clearances are maintained between the load(s) and the crane structure. The selection of accessories for lifting/lifting attachments, their weight to be taken into account when assessing the total load on the crane(s). The position of the crane(s) and of the load before, during and after the operation. The site of the operation including space availability and suitability of the ground

48 10.5.3 10.5.2

Method Statements Method assessment Risk with adjacentCraneDriversincaseofdanger)should beagreed. the team.Arrangementsforeffective communicationamongtheteam(andif necessary To beeffective, themethodstatementneedstospecifyclearroles foreachmemberof arrangements forhealthandsafetythatmightberelevant tothem. the opportunityduringsiteinductiontoseek viewsoftheteamaboutany The CraneSupervisororPrincipalContractor’s representative take shouldnormally all thoseinvolvedintheliftingoperation. to provide thebasisforabriefingorinductionandshouldbeclearlycommunicated to A copyofthemethodstatementandassociatedwork instructionsshouldbesufficient the generalsiteprecautions andthespecificfeatures ofthemethodstatement. The CraneSupervisorshouldensure thattheteamisinductedatstartofjobin authority tostoptheworkiflocalconditionsare unsatisfactory. The liftingoperationwillbeunderthecontrol ofaCraneSupervisorwhohasthe The MethodStatementshouldinclude: knowledge andexperience. When necessary, theAppointedPersonshouldconsultwithothersspecialized lifting operationandincludingtheriskassessment. that afullMethodStatementisprepared, detailingthesafesystemofworkfor Once theriskassessmenthasbeencarriedout,AppointedPersonshouldensure preparation ofthemethodstatementforthatsite. The results oftheriskassessmentshouldberecorded inwritingandusedthe consideration hazards identifiedbytheoverallsiteriskassessments. of anymeasures required tomitigatethoserisks.Theassessmentshouldalsotakeinto operation. Theassessmentshouldevaluatetherisksinvolvedandnature andextent Appointed Persontoidentifythehazards associatedwiththeproposed lifting As partoftheplanningprocess ariskassessmentshouldbecarriedoutbythe the effect oftheloadoncrane. The environmental conditionsthatexistormightoccuratthesiteofoperation Any necessaryinstallationanddismantlingofthecrane(s). or hinderasuspendedload. obstructions suchastiebeams,windposts,bracingsandpurlinsetc.whichmayfoul given toplanningliftingoperationswithinsteelframedbuildingswhere there are operations, trees, overheadservicesandstructures. Specialconsiderationmustbe or foundationsandconsiderationofproximity hazards suchasothernearbycrane operation. A clearstatementoftheallocationtaskstoallpartiesinvolvedinlifting The requirement forpre-use checkstobecompleted. organizing forroad closures ifnecessary. lifting operation,andwhere necessary, prevent theirentry intodangerzones,e.g.by Details ofthestepstobetakeneliminatedangerpersonnelnotinvolvedin each day’s work. The taskstobeachieved,togetherwiththeconfigurationofcraneatend 10 49 FLOORING CODE: SAFE USE OF LIFTING EQUIPMENT 10.6 Selection and duties of personnel

10.6.1 Selection of personnel Safe lifting operations depend upon the selection of suitable personnel who are competent to carry out the required duties. Records of training and experience of persons such as the Crane Driver assist in the selection of suitable personnel. Those responsible for the selection of personnel should ensure that the personnel involved in the operation are efficiently organized in order to ensure good team-work in the working situation. Work associated with lifting operations should not be carried out by personnel whose efficiency is impaired by alcohol, drugs or other influences. It is essential that all personnel in the team understand this. Where personnel are undergoing training, they should be supervised by appropriate personnel.

10.6.2 Duties of personnel Crane Supervisor The Crane Supervisor should direct and supervise the lifting operation, ensuring that these are carried out in accordance with the method statement. The Crane Supervisor should be competent and suitably trained and should have sufficient experience to carry out all relevant duties. The Crane Supervisor should have sufficient authority to stop the lifting operation if they consider it dangerous to proceed. Crane Coordinator The Crane Coordinator should plan and direct the sequence of operations of cranes to ensure that they do not collide with other cranes, loads and other equipment. Crane Driver The Crane Driver should be responsible for the correct operation of the crane in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and within the safe system of work. The Crane driver should only respond to a signal from the slinger to carry out the initial lifting of the load, and then only to signals from one slinger/signaller who should be easily identified during the remainder of the lifting operation. In an emergency, a commonly recognized stop signal may be given by any person observing a situation leading to danger and the Crane Driver should respond to that signal. Slinger The Slinger should be responsible for attaching and detaching the load to and from the crane load lifting attachment and for the use of the correct accessories for lifting and other equipment in accordance with the planning of the operation. The Slinger should direct initial movement of the crane. If there is more than one Slinger, only one of them should have this responsibility at any one time, depending on their positions relative to the crane. Where continuity of signalling is required and this Slinger is not visible to the Crane Driver, another Slinger or signaller may be necessary to relay signals to the Crane Driver. Alternatively, other audio or visual methods may be used. Where audio or visual methods are used, the equipment or its means of use should be such that the operator of the equipment is immediately aware of failure of the equipment, to enable them to stop crane movements. If, during the lifting operation, responsibility for directing the crane and load is to be transferred to another person trained and competent to act as Slinger, the first Slinger

50 10.6.3 10.8.1 General 10.8 10.7 Minimum attributesofpersonnel Selection ofcranes Safety relation totheequipment. and theinstructionof, allocationofresponsibilities to,thevarious personnelin lifting operationsincludetheuse,maintenance,repair andrenewal ofsafetyequipment that adequatesystemstoachievesafetyare inoperation.Safetymattersrelating to discharged, theAppointedPersonshouldbegivennecessary authoritytoensure safety duringliftingoperations.Inorder thatthisresponsibility canbeeffectively employers ofpersonnelinvolvedintheliftingoperation havetheresponsibility for The personororganization havingoverallcontrol oftheplaceworkand following: Points tobetakenintoaccountwhenmakingtheselectionofcraneinclude carry outtheplannedliftsafelyshouldbeselected. upon thetypeofcraneandknowingoverallrequirements involved,acranethatcan machines shouldbeconsidered inrelation tothejobrequirements. Havingdecided Cranes are andthecharacteristicsofvarious availableinanumberofforms and theiroperationalcharacteristics. Note: Seetheappropriate partofBS7121fordetailsthedifferent typesofcrane All personnelshould: responsibility atanyonetime. of thecraneandloadinsteadSlinger, provided thatonlyonepersonhasthe Crane Driver. TheSignallermaybegiventheresponsibility fordirecting movement The Signallershouldberesponsible forrelaying thesignalfrom theSlingerto Signaller the transferofresponsibility. Furthermore, theOperatorandnewpersonshouldclearlyindicatethattheyaccept taking place. and towhom,heshouldclearlyindicatethenewpersonthatthistransferis should clearlyindicatetotheCraneDriverthatthisresponsibility isbeingtransferred Any specialoperationalrequirements orlimitationsimposed. Space availableforcraneaccess,installation,travelling,operationanddismantling. existing buildings. Site, ground andenvironmental conditions,orrestrictions arisingfrom theuseof Length oftimeforwhichthecraneisrequired. Number, frequency andtypesof liftingoperations. its load. Operational speeds,radii,heightsofliftsandareas ofmovementthecraneand Weights, dimensionsandcharacteristicsofloads. Be physicallyabletocarryoutthework. Be abletopresent arecord oftrainingandassessment. required ofthem. thetasks Have thenecessaryskills,knowledgeexperienceandtrainingtoperform 10 51 FLOORING CODE: SAFE USE OF LIFTING EQUIPMENT 10.8.2 Weather restrictions Irrespective of the type of equipment used in lifting operations, inclement weather has an effect on the safety of the lifting operations. The amount of influence will vary with the contract and the type of equipment used. The most common problem presented by inclement weather is that caused by wind, which can seriously increase the dangers involved in lifting operations. Information on wind speed restrictions related to tower cranes is readily available and, as most tower cranes are fitted with wind speed indicators, the application of these restrictions should be enforced. In the case of mobile cranes, wind speed indicators are not a statutory requirement. If, in the opinion of the Crane Supervisor or Crane Driver, the safety of the lifting operation is adversely affected by the wind speed, the operation must be abandoned. Reference can be made to the Manufacturer’s Operating Manual and Duty Chart or to the Crane Owner for specific restrictions which allow for ‘wind sail’ area and make reference to wind speed (expressed in miles per hour, knots, metres per second, kilometres per hour, or by reference to the Beaufort scale). Note that wind conditions can vary considerably within a local area. The presence of buildings can reduce wind but can also lead to wind funnel and higher speeds than surrounding areas. Wind is generally much stronger at height than at ground level. In all cases the decision about whether to halt lifting operations due to local weather conditions ultimately rests with the crane driver and site management should respect the crane driver’s decision.

10.8.3 Identiﬁcation of person directing crane movements The person directing crane movements (Slinger or Signaller) should be easily identifiable to the Crane Driver, for example by wearing different coloured high visibility clothing different coloured safety helmet or by using radio call signs. When choosing high visibility clothing, the backgrounds, type of illumination, similarity to other operatives and other relevant factors should be taken into account to ensure mistaken identity does not occur.

10.8.4 Rated Capacity Indicators and Limiters All cranes with a Safe Working Limit (SWL) of 1 tonne or more must be fitted with a Rated Capacity Indicator and Limiter (RCI/RCL) All RCI/RCL must give the following warnings: Warning of approach to SWL. When the load weight on the hook approaches the SWL of the crane at that radius, a warning of approach to SWL will be displayed to the Operator. This may take the form of a visual or an audible warning within the cab. Warning of overload. When the load weight on the hook exceeds the SWL of the crane, a visual and audible warning of overload will be given to the Crane Driver. The audible warning will also be sufficiently loud to be heard by those persons working in the vicinity of the crane. Most cranes are fitted with one or more override key switches. These switches are intended for use during rigging and de-rigging of the crane. They should not be used to override the RCI/RCL in order to lift loads that exceed the rated capacity of the crane. It is important that the Crane Driver ensures the RCI/RCL is correctly set up for the configuration of the crane.

10.8.5 Documentation – certiﬁcates, records and registers 10.8.5.1 Crane Drivers The Appointed Person, or the Crane Supervisor in charge of the lifting operation, is responsible for checking all documentation for the Crane Driver, and crane and lifting accessories documentation before work commences.

52 10.8.5.3 10.8.5.2

Documentation Operator trainingqualiﬁcations Examination islistedbelow: (PrescribedInformation Particulars)tobecontainedinareport ofThorough All cranesmustcarrydocumentationthatprovides: involved inanymaintenanceactivitywiththecraneorexamining hisownwork. is employedbytheCraneOwner, measures shouldbeinplacetoensure that thepersonisnot independent tobeabletakedecisionswithoutfearor favour. Where theCompetentPerson continued useoftheliftingequipment.TheCompetentPersonshouldbesufficiently detect defectsorweaknessesandtoassesstheirimportanceinrelation tothesafetyand lifting equipmenttocarryouttheThorough Examination.Thiswillenablethemto appropriate practicalandtheoretical engineeringknowledgeandexperienceofthe LOLER andPUWERrequire CraneOwnerstonominateaCompetentPersonwhohas and alsotheexpirydateformachineheisoperating(seeFigure 10.2). The CraneSupervisorshouldchecktheDriverhascorrect CPCScategory driver shouldalsobeabletodemonstratehiscompetencyonthecraneheisoperating. most sitesthere isarequirement forallOperatorstoholdaCPCScard. However, the Although avoluntaryscheme,mostcranehire companieshaveadoptedtheCPCS.On in Figure 10.2. entrant) orCPCSBlueCard (experiencedoperative),anexampleofwhichcanbeseen Under theCPCS,allOperativesregistered are issuedwithaCPCSRedCard (new to managethisschemeandkeeprecords ofoperatorregistration. plant OperativesandithasarrangedfortheConstructionIndustryTraining Board (CITB) The ConstructionPlantCertificationScheme(CPCS)provides forthecertificationof to operate. requirement forCraneDriverstobetrainedandcompetentonthecranesthattheyare therequirementsWithin oflegislationandHealthSafetyguidancenotes,there isa All CraneDriversshouldbeabletodemonstratecompetenceinoperatingthemachineuse. Card issuedbyConstructionPlantCompetenceScheme Figure 10.2 manufacture. Particulars sufficienttoidentifytheequipment including,where known,itsdateof The address ofthepremises atwhichthe Thorough Examinationwasmade. The nameandaddress oftheEmployerforwhomThorough Examinationwasmade. Competent Personevery12months(sixifcrane isforliftingpersons). A record ofThorough Examinations–Allcranesmustbethoroughly examinedbya on aninspectionsheet. Crane Driveronadailyandweeklybasistheresults mustbeproperly recorded A record ofDailyandWeekly Inspections–Allcranesmust beinspectedbythe 10 53 FLOORING CODE: SAFE USE OF LIFTING EQUIPMENT The date of the last Thorough Examination. The safe working load of the lifting equipment or, where its safe working load depends on the configuration of the lifting equipment, its safe working load for the last configuration in which it was thoroughly examined. The Thorough Examination must take place: For lifting equipment for lifting persons or an accessory for lifting persons or equipment, at least every 6 months. For lifting accessories, at least every 6 months. For cranes, every 12 months or every 6 months if used for lifting persons. Every Thorough Examination of Lifting Equipment Report should include: Identification of any part found to have a defect which is, or could become, a danger to persons, and a description of the defect. Particulars of any repair, renewal or alteration required to remedy a defect found to be a danger to persons. In the case of a defect which is not yet, but could become, a danger to persons: yyThe time by which it could become such a danger. yyParticulars of any repair, renewal or alteration required to remedy it. yyThe latest date by which the next Thorough Examination must be carried out. Where the Thorough Examination included testing, particulars of any test: yyThe date of the Thorough Examination. yyThe name, address and qualifications of the person making the report, if he is self- employed or, if employed, the name and address of his employer. yyThe name and address of a person signing or authenticating the report on behalf of its author. yyThe date of the report. The above list is an extract from Regulation 10(1) from LOLER.

10.8.5.4 Lifting accessory test records When purchased, lifting accessories should be supplied with a Declaration of Conformity (DOC) to the Machinery Directive and be accompanied by a Test Certificate. The DOC may be used in lieu of a Report of Thorough Examination for the first six months after purchase. There may be times when more than one item of lifting accessory is displayed on the record, particularly when accessories are purchased in batch order quantities.

10.8.5.5 Lifting accessory examination records The following key points should be identified: Record number or letter. Description of accessory. Identification number on item. Examination date. Owner of accessory. Condition of accessory, e.g. ‘In good order and safe to use’. Signature of examiner. Last examination date. Latest date of next examination. When examinations have been carried out by an independent organisation, the examination report should be made on that organisation’s headed record.

54 10.9.2 10.9.1 10.9.2.1 Guidanceoncraneoutriggerloadings 10.9 Stability ofcranes General Siting ofcranes thecraneconfigurationandintendedloadstobelifted: concerning information should beabletoprovide Thecranesupplierwillneed thefollowing thisinformation. operation, theoutriggerloadsneedtobeobtained.Most reputable cranesuppliers Having decidedonthelocation,minimumsizeandtype ofcranetobeusedforthelifting The stabilityofmobilecranesrelies onthefollowingfactors: provided bytheAppointedPerson. ensure thatthecranestandingposition(s)isprepared inaccordance withtheloading The suitabilityofground conditions istheresponsibility oftheContractor, whomust publication C703whichmayalsoprovide onothertypesofcranes. information Note: Furtherdetailsregarding thesitingofmobileandtowercranesare giveninCIRIA operation, particularlythefollowing: Siting ofthecraneshouldtakeaccountallfactorsthatcouldaffect itssafe an indicationofanypossibleproblems. fortwominutestosimulateactuallift.Thisshouldgive over foreachoutriggerinturn fully retract themainboomderricktominimiseradiusandthenslewcounterweight If there isdoubtabouttheground condition,theCraneDrivershouldbeinstructedto Quantity ofcounterweight fittedtothecrane. Hook block. Length andoffset ofanyflyjib. Outrigger spread. Boom extension. Crane sizeandtype. adverse weather. the courseofinstallation,payingattentiontodeteriorationasaresult ofusage and The CraneSupervisorandDrivermustmonitorground conditionsduring Specific outriggerloadingsare availablefrom theCraneOwner. of SafeWorking Loads,i.e.DutyCharts. That thecranecarriesoutliftingstrictlyinaccordance withthemanufacturer’s tables prevent themsinkingintotheground whilstliftingloads. That adequatesupportmaterialhasbeenpositionedundertheoutriggerjacksto free ofweight. That theoutriggerjacksare extendedtoraisethecranewheelsoff theground and dimensions. or positionsinaccordance withthecranemanufacturer’s specifieddutiesand That theoutriggerbeamsoncraneare extendedtotherequired lengths avoid underground servicesandconstructions,basements. Arrangementsmustbemadeto mayleadtothe craneoverturning. which inturn constructions maysuffer damageorcollapseduetoacranepassingovernearby, That theground issuitablycompactedandlevelled.Underground servicesor dismantling andremoving thecranefollowingcompletionofliftingoperations. access toallowtheplacingorinstallationofcraneinitsworkingpositionandfor The effect ofwindduringin-serviceandout-of-serviceconditions,theadequacy The presence andproximity ofotherhazards. The cranestandingandsupportconditions. 10 55 FLOORING CODE: SAFE USE OF LIFTING EQUIPMENT Maximum radius the load will be taken to during the lift together with the pick-up and lay-down radii. Slew arc for the lifting operations. This information should be provided to the crane supplier in a written format, generally as a drawing with tabular data. The crane supplier should likewise respond in a written format. Typically the information provided will include maximum and minimum point loadings in tonnes or kN for each individual outrigger. If information is not available from the crane supplier, it can be obtained from the crane manufacturer. Care must be taken, however, to ensure that the manufacturer is provided with the serial number, exact model and configuration of the crane to be used. This information can also be obtained from proprietary software packages, but again, extreme care must be taken to ensure that the correct make, model and configuration of crane has been selected.

10.9.2.2 Access and hardstanding Examination of ground conditions should be thorough, including the condition of ground adjacent to the access and the working area of the crane. Special attention must be paid to: Trenches may require additional shoring to prevent collapse when a crane stands or passes nearby. Cellars and basements must also be considered to present the same risk as trenches. Inadequately compacted fill to trenches or excavations can lead to the overturning of a crane passing over or standing on such ground. Underground services or constructions may suffer damage or collapse due to a crane passing over or nearby, which in turn may lead to the crane itself overturning. Ramps, slopes or uneven ground can seriously affect the stability of a crane and must, therefore, be avoided, made safe or approached with extreme caution. Following the visit of the Appointed Person, the Contractor must have considered any conditions on site which could have a detrimental effect upon the safe passage and working of a crane. If there is any doubt as to the suitability of any aspect of the site, it must be brought to the attention of the Contractor’s Site Representative in order that remedial measures may be implemented. The Crane Supervisor and Crane Driver must continue to monitor ground conditions during the whole operation, paying particular attention to deterioration as a result of usage and adverse weather. The crane must operate only from the position(s) formally agreed between the Appointed Person and the Contractor’s Site Representative or such other position as may be agreed at the time by the Crane Supervisor after consultation with the Appointed Person and the Contractor’s Site Representative, provided that the level of safety is not reduced as a result and the Appointed Person has reviewed and approved the method statement amendment. The crane standing should be constructed by the Contractor to take the outrigger loadings or, where a specific type of crane does not utilise outriggers, the ground loading pressure provided by the Appointed Person. The crane standing should be a minimum of 8 m x 8 m unless otherwise specified by the Appointed Person. The entire pad should be level and constructed to take the outrigger loadings to allow for the final positioning of the crane. The adequacy of each crane standing position must be confirmed in writing by the Contractor’s Site Representative, or other Competent Person on their behalf, prior to the crane working in that position.

56 10.10.2 10.10.1 10.10 10.10.3

Principal Contractor conﬁrmation of hardstanding bearing capacity bearing hardstanding of conﬁrmation Contractor Principal Use outriggers of of ground deteriorationaftertestshavebeenundertaken. It isprudenttoapplyafactorofsafetyallcalculationswhere there isanypossibility ground moisture itsloadbearingcharacteristics. contentisamajorfactorindetermining Note: Ground loadbearingtestresults for agivenarea canvaryfrom daytoday, as onfactorsofsafety.information/guidance Appointed Personsandengineersshouldrefer totheCIRIApublicationC703formore impractically large/inefficient outriggermatareas. bearing capacity. Suchoverlycautiousassessments canresult ina “requirement” for ofthehardstandand avoidincludingadditionalsafetyfactorsuponconfirmation enable theAppointedPersontomakeadecisionbasedonappropriate calculations safety factorsbuiltintothecraneplanningoutriggerloadcalculations.Thisshould of safetyhasbeenincluded.Theengineershouldalsobemadeaware oftheintegral Upon receipt oftheresulting assessment,itisrecommended thatitisaskedwhatfactor Appointed Person.Theassessmentmayrequire inputfrom ageotechnicalengineer. may needtobeconsidered bythePrincipalContractor’s CompetentPersonandthe capability sinceinitialassessment.Furtherinvestigationand/oradditionalsafetyfactors construction activityandground thehardstanding watercontenthavenotundermined factor appliedtothecraneplanningoperations.Care shouldbetakentoensure that works/assessment (relative thesafety totheliftingoperations)willhelpdetermine gross craneweightplus100%ofthegross load.Thedetailandtimingofinvestigative be statedwithintheassessment.Commonpracticeinindustryistouse75%of bearingcapacitiestheseshould using ultimateormaximumallowable/permissible Hardstanding preparation Hardstanding wheels’ and/orshortoutrigger base.Formore refer information tomanufacturer’s dutycharts. and allwheelsoff theground, asshowninFigure 10.3.Somecranes have dutiesfor‘free on In order toachieve‘fullyrigged,onoutrigger duties’allbeamshavetobefullyextended additional assessment/ground preparation/load spread. Competent PersonshouldcontacttheAppointed withoutdelaytodiscuss the maximumallowablebearingpressure isstillexceededthePrincipalContractor’s is required priortofinalisingthecraneplanning.Ifmatsizeoptions meanthat proposed tonnes/m²outriggerloadisacceptable, orwhetheradditionalconsideration ensure that the asuitableassessmenttakesplace.This shouldincludeconfirmation loads (intonnes/m²)tothePrincipalContractor. ThePrincipalContractormustthen planning, itisacceptablefortheAppointedPersonto propose inadvanceoutrigger In theabsenceofhardstanding atthetimeofinitialcrane bearingcapacityinformation exceeded atanytime. theproposedconfirm outriggermatsizetoensure theground bearingcapacityisnot ofthehardstandingFollowing confirmation bearingcapacity, theAppointedPersonwill thebearingcapacityintonnes/m and confirm assessment oftheproposed cranehardstanding isundertakenbyaCompetentPerson regarding thehardstanding capability. Inorder toachievethistheyshouldensure an The PrincipalContractormustprovide totheAppointedPerson adequateinformation an assessment. assistance tothePrincipalContractors’sitemanagerinensuringadequateprovision ofsuch ThePrincipalDesignerand/ortemporaryworkscoordinatorInformation. shouldbeof ofspecifichazards and warnings shouldhavebeenidentifiedinthePre-Construction been studied,anyadditionalsiteinvestigationsrequired shouldhavebeencarriedout Before onthenature acranearrivesonsite,existinginformation ofthesoilsshouldhave Appointed Person – proposals to adequately spread the outrigger load outrigger the spread adequately to –proposals Person Appointed 2 totheAppointedPerson.Whether 10 57 FLOORING CODE: SAFE USE OF LIFTING EQUIPMENT The difference in level between any two outrigger supports should be less than 300 mm and the ground beneath each pad should be levelled to avoid any risk of the crane sliding off outrigger support pads. Note: When working, monitor the outriggers frequently. If there is any concern regarding stability of the outrigger or support pads, work should cease immediately to enable further assessment of the crane hardstanding area.

Correct Wheels off ground Crane chassis level Outriggers fully extended Level ground

Figure 10.3a Correct use of outriggers

Incorrect Crane wheels under load

Incorrect ¡ Left outrigger not fully extended(1) ¡ Ground uneven

Figure 10.3b Incorrect use of outriggers Note: (1) This may not be a problem if a proprietary variable outrigger system is being used.

10.11 ‘Permit to lift’ system/confrmation to proceed Prior to commencing the lifting operations, the Principal Contractor should sign confirmation that: The crane is rigged in the anticipated crane stand position as indicated on the Lift Plan. The crane hardstanding has been prepared adequately to withstand the load specified on the Lift Plan. Full consideration has been given to all factors, including potential ground deterioration due to weather or construction activity since initial investigation or assessment. The Principal Contractor should then confirm daily that these conditions are still met by signing off the work. Any concerns regarding the lift operation should be communicated to the Appointed Person, Crane Supervisor and Crane Driver who all have the authority to veto the lift.

58 10.12.2 10.12.1 10.12

Safety near electricity lines electricity near Safety Proximity hazards Proximity and clearancefrom electricsupplier/railway companytoverifythesafesystemofwork. jib length,asshowninFigures 10.4a,10.4band10.4c.Ifthisisnotpossible seekadvice plant mustnotbeoperated withintheexclusionzonesshownbelowplusmaximum declared ‘dead’ and ‘safe’bythelineoperator. Ifindoubt,seekadvice.Cranesorother Warning: by theAppointedPersonpriortocranebeingset upandtheliftcommencing. a craneisselecteditimportantthatthesettingand functionofthedeviceisverified systems thatcanbesettorestrict slewangle,hookheightandradius.Where such Consideration shouldbegiventotheselectionofamobile cranefittedwithzoning tend toswinglaterallyinthewindandaccidentalcontact couldoccur. Caution isstillneededwhenworkingnearoverheadlines whichhavelongspans,asthey and proved dead.Ifthisisnotpossible,then rerouting oftheservicemaybepossible. not possiblearrangementsshouldbemadefortheoverhead linestobeelectricallyisolated to prevent danger. Lowervoltage linescanbeshrouded bythelineoperator. Where thisis Where thesafetymargins inGS6cannotbecompliedwith,othermethodsshouldtaken according tothevoltageofline,asfollows: that maybefittedtothepoleorpylon.Theminimumextentofthesezonesvaries Lines. Thisadvisesestablishingexclusionzonesaround thelineandanyotherequipment ofElectricityOverhead Look Up!AGuidetotheSafeUseofMechanicalPlantinVicinity practicable. Alsorefer totheEnergy NetworksAssociation(ENA)publicationLookOut electrical systemtobecarriedoutsoasprevent danger, sofarasisreasonably Guidance NoteGS6shouldbecompliedwith,whichrequires allworkonornearan Whenever possible,workunderorclosetoelectricitylinesshouldbeavoided.HSE At anyplacewhere acraneoritsloadpassesanobstacle,thefollowingapply. adequately protected againstdamage. is clearofanyunderground servicesor, where thisisnotpossible,thattheservicesare not beoverlooked.Precautions shouldbetakentoensure thatthecranefoundation The dangertoorfrom underground servicessuchasgasmainsorelectriccablesshould appropriate authorityshouldbeconsulted. Where anypartofthecraneoritsloadcannotbekeptclearsuchhazards the and purlinsetc.whichmayfoulorhinderasuspendedload. be giventowhere there are obstructionssuchastiebeams,windposts,sagrods, bracings steelframedbuildingsconsiderationmust including highways,railwaysandrivers.Within cranes, vehiclesbeingloadedorunloaded,stackedgoodsandpublicaccessareas electric linesorcables,nearbystructures, includingearthworksandretaining walls,other Consideration shouldbegiventothepresence ofproximity hazards suchasoverhead l a r e n e G goods should be permanently markedontheground.goods shouldbepermanently Where goods are regularly stackednearacrane,boundarylinesforthestackingof 275 kVand400lines–7m. 132 kVline–6m; 11 kVand33lines–3m; low-voltage line–1m; access toanytrappinghazards. practicable toachievethisclearance,effective precautions shouldbetakentoprevent arranged betweenanypartofthecraneandobstacle.Where itisnotreasonably it iskeptfree from obstruction,andaclearanceofnotlessthan600mmshouldbe Where practicable,thecranepathshouldbeclearlydefinedbymarkingtoensure that All overheadlinesandotherelectricalapparatusmust betreated asliveunless 10 59 FLOORING CODE: SAFE USE OF LIFTING EQUIPMENT Note: ‘Maximum jib length’ is the length fully telescoped out or to a point of physical restriction, not simply the boom length in use.

Figure 10.4a Exclusion zones

Figure 10.4b Safety margins near electricity lines

Figure 10.4c Safe stand off distances

10.12.3 Crane control in the vicinity of aerodromes/airﬁelds If a crane is to be used within 6 km of an aerodrome/airfield and its height exceeds 10 m or that of surrounding structures or trees, if higher, the Client should consult the aerodrome/airfield manager for prior permission to work. Restrictions could be placed on the overall height of the crane and there could be a requirement to fit warning (obstacle) lights to the top of the crane.

60 10.12.4 10.13 10.13.1.1 10.13.1

Crane control in the vicinity of railways of vicinity the in control Crane General considerations Mobile telescopic cranes telescopic Mobile Types ofcrane and thattheCraneDriver is confidentthattheoperationcan besafelyundertaken. ensure thattheCrane DriverandtheSignallerare aware oftheroute tobefollowed Before allowingthecranetotravel, theAppointedPersonorCraneSupervisormust should watchforhazards, slopesandunevenground, allof whichshouldbeavoided. with themanufacturer’s guidelines.ItshouldbeguidedbyacompetentSignaller, who The cranemustoperateonlevelground andproceed atacrawlpaceinaccordance Contractor’s SiteRepresentative. maintained betweenCraneDriver, CompanyRepresentative orForeman andthe When travellingwithasuspendedload,great care mustbetakenandfullliaison advice andapproval ofthecraneownersought. mobile telescopiccranesare unavoidable,specialistcranesmustbeusedand the and mayneedtotravelwithasuspendedload.When ‘free onwheelsduties’involving In someconditions,mobiletelescopiccranesmayoperate on‘free onwheelsduties’ safety measure thatcompensatesforanyfailure oftheradioequipment. continuous instructionfrom theSlinger/Signaller, heshouldstopthe operation.Thisisa Hoist”,“Stop”, “Derrickin,Derrickin”,“Stop”,etc.IftheCraneDriverdoesnotreceive continuously giverepeated instructiontotheCraneDriver, e.g.“Hoist,Hoist, When usingradioasameansofcommunication,theSlinger/Signallermust Ensure radios are adequatelycharged andmaintainedpriortooperation. of usemustbesuchthattheCraneDriverwillimmediatelyaware oftheinstructions. Where audioorvisualmethodsofcommunicationare used,theequipmentoritsmeans Statement. the correct liftingaccessoriesandequipmentinaccordance withtheWork Method The Slinger/Signallerisresponsible forattachingtheloadtocranehookandusing must checkthelevelasoftenisreasonably practicableduringtheliftingoperations. enough tobefree from theground before anyliftingisattempted.TheCraneDriver The cranemustbelevel,bothlengthwiseandacross thechassis,andwheelslifted distribution oftheimposedloadingbeneatheachoutriggermat. Itmay benecessarytoprovidefor furtherinformation. asandbedtoensure even with thecrane.RefertoSection10.9.2.1,Guidanceoncraneoutriggerloadings, otherwise,standardthe AppointedPersonconfirms outriggermatswillbeprovided and togiveproper supportonalltypesofsurface.Itshouldbenotedthat,unless firm Suitable matsmustbeusedundertheoutriggerstospread theloadfrom thecrane, instruction anddutycharts. extended positionandlocked,asrecommended bythecranemanufacturer’s operating outriggers. Insuchcircumstances, alloutriggersmustbeused,andtheyintheir operateon ‘blockedduties’i.e.supportedon Mobile telescopiccranesnormally safely aspossible. what courseofactionshouldbetakentoensure liftingoperationsare carriedoutas Manager. Networkrailwillthenassesstheworkactivitiesbeingundertaken,andadvise should ensure theclientconsultsappropriate regional NetworkRailAssetProtection theappointedperson of thecraneobstructingtrackiffailsoroverturns, If acraneistobeusedinthevicinityofrailways,where there isariskoftheloadorpart Mobile telescopic cranes – ‘free on wheels duties’ wheels on –‘free cranes telescopic Mobile 10 61 FLOORING CODE: SAFE USE OF LIFTING EQUIPMENT Hand lines may be attached to the suspended load whilst the crane is slewing and held by one or more trained Competent Persons, to prevent swinging. At no point should any person stand under a suspended load while holding onto or collecting a hand line. The load should be carried as close to the ground as is reasonably practicable.

10.13.1.2 Mobile cranes – restricted duties Most mobile cranes have 360° lifting duties, although some are restricted to side lifting and/ or rear lifting duties, as shown In Figure 10.5; this must be considered when selecting cranes.

360° lifting

Side lifting

Outriggers Front area Rear lifting fully extended

Side lifting

Figure 10.5 Mobile crane with restricted lifting duty

10.13.2 Crawler cranes Crawler cranes offer an alternative to mobile telescopic cranes. These cranes operate with 360° lifting duties and a fixed boom, often accompanied by a fly jib for lighter duties with extended reach. They also operate on crawler tracks, which enable the crane to travel with a load. Detailed lifting plans and sketches of routes should be incorporated into the lift plans and safe system of work before a crawler crane is used. When travelling with a suspended load, great care must be taken and full liaison maintained between Crane Driver, Crane Supervisor and Contractor’s Site Representative. Dynamic forces and shock loadings exerted on the suspended load must be taken into consideration when lifting precast products with cast-in lifting inserts and when travelling across uneven ground conditions. The crane must operate on level ground and proceed at a crawl pace. It should be guided by a competent Signaller/Banksman, who should watch for obstructions at ground level and overhead. They should also watch for uneven ground or slopes, both of which should be avoided. Before allowing the crane to travel, the Crane Supervisor should ensure that the Crane Driver and Signaller/Banksman are aware of the route to be taken and that the Crane Driver is confident that the operation can be undertaken safely. The suspended load should be carried as close to the ground as possible and hand lines should be attached to it during transit to prevent excessive swinging. At no point should any person stand under a suspended load while holding onto or collecting a hand line.

62 10.14.1 10.14 10.13.3 Tower cranes

General Start of the lifting operation lifting the of Start the AppointedPersonorCraneSupervisorcanproceed asfollows: After carryingoutthedocumentationcheckandhavingestablishedthatallisinorder, equipment, e.g.liftingropes. being operatedincloseproximity, toavoidjibscomingintocontactwithothercrane The Contractorshouldgivespecialconsiderationwhentwoormore cranesare done onlyafterworkissuspendedandthearea iscordoned off. carry outtheirlegitimatebusiness,e.g.maintenanceworkers,inspectors.Thisshouldonlybe a towercraneare thosepeopleauthorisedbytheCraneOwner/hirer, inorder thattheycan person forthepurposeoftraining.Theonlyotherpersonswhoshouldbeallowedaccessto operated bytrainedCertificatedpersons,unlessunderthedirect supervisionofaCertificated As withothercranes,towercranesmustbeproperly testedandcertificated.Theymustbe for deliveryvehicles. The Contractormustprovide theCompanywithdetailsofdedicatedfloadingpoints duties andadequatelyplantheliftingoperation. weights andpositionsoftheprecast concrete unitstoallowtheContractorfulfilhis The Companyisresponsible forensuringthattheContractorisprovided withthe required forliftingandinstallingtheprecast concrete units. The Contractorisresponsible forensuringthatthetowercraneiscapableofduties remains safeforthedifferent liftingoperations/loadconfigurationsforwhichitwillbeused. operation canbecarriedoutsafely. Theplanmustalsoensure thattheliftingequipment show theresources required, inadditiontoprocedures andresponsibilities, sothatthelifting of suchoperations.Theplanmustaddress risksidentifiedduringriskassessmentandmust The personplanningtheliftingoperationshouldhavesufficientknowledgeandexperience tower craneisproperly plannedbyaCompetentPersoninaccordance withBS7121–Part5. The Contractorisalsoresponsible forensuringthattheliftingoperationcarriedoutby manufacturer’s recommendations. maintained byaCompetentPerson,inaccordance withBS7121–Part5andthecrane The Contractorisresponsible forensuringthatthetowercranehasbeeninstalledand and havevacated theworkingradiusof thecrane. Ensure that,before ofthelifting operation lifting,sitepersonnel have beenwarned personnel are notbeingputatrisk. set uppositionasindicated ontheliftplan,ensuringthatpublicandother site Supervise themanoeuvring ofthecraneontoandacross siteandinto therequired appropriate actiontakenasdetailedin theSafeWorking MethodStatement. compacted sufficientlymustbeavoided.Allproximity hazards mustbeidenti fied and the MethodStatement.Trenches orexcavationsthathaverecently beenfilledandnot trenches, cellars,basements,rampsandslopes,theseshouldbe clearlyidentifiedin cables, trees, arches, scaffolding, etc.and underground hazards suchasattenuationtanks, safe andsuitable.Particularattentionshouldbepaidto overheadobstructions,e.g. Driver mustensure, byjointinspection,thatthe access,workingandadjacentareas are Before allowingthecranetoenterworkarea, theCraneSupervisorand acknowledgement ofthisbriefingmustbeobtainedfrom eachpersoninvolved. ontheheaviestloadandmaximumradius ofoperation.Signed including information all personnelinvolvedtheintendedliftingoperationand weightofloadsbeinglifted, Safe SystemofWork andare fullybriefedontheirroles andresponsibilities. Discusswith Ensure thatallpersonnelinvolvedare familiarwiththeSafeWorking MethodStatement/ to receive theoutriggerloadingspreviously notifiedandindicatedontheLiftPlan. Competent Personontheirbehalf)thatthehardstanding hasbeenadequatelyprepared inwritingfromObtain confirmation theContractor’s SiteRepresentative (orother 10 63 FLOORING CODE: SAFE USE OF LIFTING EQUIPMENT Ensure that the Crane Driver can identify and understand those who are to give signals and that all are aware of the code of signals that are to be used, see Figure 10.6 overleaf for recommended crane signals. Ensure that the lifting accessory is of adequate Safe Working Load (SWL), of suitable chain leg length for sling angle and that a hand line is available for use if required. Ensure that during lifting and placing loads the crane is lifting within safe working load, radius and capacity. When lifting from transport off site or with the crane positioned off site, particular attention must be given to segregation of pedestrians and traffic management. Ensure that the load/lifting equipment is clear of obstructions at all times. Monitor the lifting operation continuously to ensure that it progresses safely. Be prepared to stop the operation if personnel or the crane are working unsafely, or for any other reasons.

10.14.2 Safe Working Load Charts – Duty Charts

Each crane has an individual Manufacturer’s Duty Chart, which clearly T shows the boom length, lifting radius and load for the crane to work safely. These must not be exceeded (Figure 10.7). M Other variables include number of falls of hoist rope, position of outriggers, amount of counterweight fitted. These charts are set out in varying ways by the crane manufacturers, depending on the number of lifting configurations and duties in which the crane can work. During planning, care should be taken to ensure that the correct rig and lengths have been used and that there is sufficient margin (factor of safety of minimum 10%) between the rated capacity of the crane at the operational radius and the weight of the load to be lifted. Figure 10.7 Illustration of the crane’s capacity being exceeded

10.14.3 Slewing clearance warning

At any place where a crane or its load passes an obstacle, the following applies: Where practicable, the crane path should be clearly defined by marking to ensure that it is kept free from obstruction, and a clearance of not 600 mm less than 600 mm should be arranged min between any part of the crane and any obstacle (Figure 10.8). Where it is not reasonably practicable Figure 10.8 to achieve this clearance, effective Illustration of a situation where site personnel could be trapped between the crane and a barrier precautions should be taken to prevent when the crane slews access to any trapping hazards.

64 Recommended cranesignals Figure 10.6 10 65 FLOORING CODE: SAFE USE OF LIFTING EQUIPMENT 10.14.4 Use of on-site equipment Any equipment used on site must be fully certified and used only by trained and competent personnel. In some instances the nature of the installation does not allow the load and Slinger/ Signaller to be visible to the Crane Driver even in normal weather conditions and alternative methods of signal relay have to be employed, e.g. radios. Ensure radios are adequately charged and maintained prior to operation. When the above conditions apply to the installation, then the Slinger/Signaller giving signals to the Crane Driver must have the load in full clear view at all times. Another Slinger/Signaller may be required to ensure that there is control of the load at all times. Where inclement weather interferes with this view, then the lifting operation must be abandoned, and the load left in a stable condition.

10.14.5 Restricted headroom Detailed planning should take place before attempting any contract where there is with restricted crane headroom, for example, within a pre-prepared structure. Preparatory investigation should include, but not be limited to, the following: Distance between hook block and crane boom head. Over hoist limit switch – distance from head to hook block. Critical boom angle – the minimum angle to horizontal at which the crane will operate. These all vary, depending upon the crane capacity and crane manufacturer (Figure 10.9). Allowance must be made for deflections of the boom both under load and during movements.

Boom head

Over hoist limit switch

Hook block

Chain master link

60° H 120° H = Approx 0.25 × unit length

Figure 10.9 Factors to consider where there is restricted headroom Note: When being used over the recommended angle of 90°, the SWL of chains must be marked for use at 120° The length, width and depth of the precast units will dictate the length of chains required, see Figure 10.10. Patent lifting devices can be used, but these may affect the headroom. The effect of lifting inclined precast units should also be considered.

10.14.6 Lifting pre-stressed precast flooring units at an angle Units can be lifted at an angle with the same capacity chains as described below, provided the chain leg is always less than 45° to the vertical. Lifting units at an angle depends upon: Unit integrity. Grip by choke hitch. Suitability of bearings to land angled units. The imposed loads on lifting pins when units are lifted at an angle. Guidance should be sought from the manufacturer.

66 10.15.1 10.15

Chain slings typical trigonometry typical by of use indicated practice working safe of Examples from 45°uptoandincluding60°theverticalasshownin Table 10.3overleaf. methodforrangesofanglesfrom to beratedintheUniform 0°to45° to theverticalor standards forGrade8chain.Thisstandard callsfor allslingsmanufactured forgeneraluse Chain slingsusedforgeneralliftingpurposesshouldbe manufactured tocurrent Under theLOLERRegulationsallliftingtackleshouldbe: web slings,eyebolts,shackles,etc. machinery forlifting.Themore of‘lifting tackle’encompasseschainslings, genericterm are classifiedasan‘accessoryforlifting’i.e.workequipmentattachingloadsto Under theLOLER(LiftingEquipmentandLiftingRegulations),slings lifting precast unitsintoareas where headroom iscompromised. maintain anangleoflessthan45°from vertical.Thisissometimesnecessarywhen Shortening chainsononesideoftheprecast unittobeliftedenablesthechain clutches. Itisrecommended thatsafetychainsare usedwhere possible. they are tobeinstalled,usingallavailableliftingpinsandchainsfittedwithshortening weight ofthestairunit.Duringinstallation,stairsshouldbeliftedatanglewhich When liftingprecast stairsthesizeofliftingclutchmayvary, dependingonthesizeand Lifting prestressed flooringunitsatanangle.Diagramisforguidanceonly Figure 10.10 Original Test Certificate. Certified eitherwithaDeclarationofConformity, Thorough ExaminationReportor Thoroughly examinedevery6months. Provided thatindicatesitsSWLforeachconfiguration. withinformation Marked withitsSWL(SafeWorking Load)orWLL(Working LoadLimit). 0.8 m 25° 7 m 6.3 m 25 ° 20 ° 23.7° 6.3 m 6.65 m 4.66 m 32.9° 10 67 FLOORING CODE: SAFE USE OF LIFTING EQUIPMENT Table 10.3 The trigonometry method for rating of slings

Nominal size of Maximum Safe Working Load for two-leg slings (tonnes) chain (mm) ß = 0° – 44° Choke Hitch ß = 45° – 60° Choke Hitch Reduce SWL Reduce SWL by 20% by 20% 8 2.8 2.24 2.0 1.6 10 4.25 3.4 3.15 2.52 13 7.5 6 5.3 4.24 16 11.2 8.96 8.0 6.4

Each sling should also have relevant information on an affixed tag, showing: Number of chain legs. Nominal size of chain in mm. Lifting capacity at 45° to vertical, angle ß. Lifting capacity at 60° to vertical, angle ß. The capacity of chains marked in the Uniform method cannot be increased by reducing the included angle. Chain slings rated in the trigonometrical method are no longer manufactured for general-purpose use within BS EN 818–4. Although chain slings are manufactured to BS EN 818–4 and rated in the Uniform method, existing slings previously rated in the Trigonometrical method can still be used, provided they are regularly inspected and have the relevant certification. The Trigonometrical method provides for a variation in the WLL as the angle to the vertical varies and its use was a common practice throughout the UK for multipurpose applications. Care must be taken when using slings rated in the Trigonometrical method as the Slinger must be provided with tables showing the SWL at various angles for each size of chain. There is an inherent danger of overloading the sling if the angles have been misjudged. Precast concrete units are often lifted by the ‘choke hitch’ method of slinging. When this method is used the SWL should be reduced by 20% but reference should always be made to the lifting equipment manufacturer’s table of SWL. When using the ‘choke hitch’ method of slinging, it is always important to take into account the length, width and depth of the precast concrete units when calculating the length of chains required to undertake the lifting operation, as this could ultimately affect the sling angle of the chains and lead to overloading of the sling.

10.15.2 Multiple leg slings Multiple leg slings are comprised of more than one leg, which are connected by intermediate links to the master link. They are marked with the SWL and identification serial number on the master link or tag. The SWL should be calculated by using either the Uniform or the Trigonometrical method.

68 10.16.1 10.16

Proprietary lifting devices lifting Proprietary Other lifting devices lifting Other loading ineachleg. choice ofliftingslings,asmultiplelegslingsare ratedontheassumptionthere isequal doubt, theCraneSupervisormustrefer backfortechnicaladviceandapproval onthe component priortoliftinginorder aneffective todetermine slingingarrangement.Ifin When usingmultiplelegslings,itisimportanttoassessthecentre ofgravitya chains mustbeused. final placementonly. Unlessliftingpointsare beingusedforfinalplacementonly, safety points castintofloorunitsare designedtobeusedforallliftingrequirements orfor have beencastin,allmustbeused.Care shouldbetakentoestablishwhether lifting Consideration mustbegiventofinalplacementofall floor units.Where liftingpoints of thecomponentmaybepainted,orotherwiseindicated, onthecomponentitself. ofacomponentschedule,onconstruction drawings,ortheweight conveyed intheform the CraneSupervisortoselectcorrect mustbe liftingequipment. This information aboutthecomponent’sInformation weightmustalwaysbeavailableonsitetoenable allow, say, a 2-tonne devicetobeusedwithacast-infitting,etc. is usedonsite.Forexample,‘CCL’, or‘Frimeda’typedevices,whichonly ‘Modform’ other thanflooring,thusensuringthatonlythecorrect capacity counterpartdevice Cast-in weight-ratedliftingdevicesmustbeusedforprecast concrete components intervals. Anyitemsthatshowsignsofwearorfatiguemustbereturned totheCompany. The CraneSupervisormustconductaninspectionofproprietary liftingdevicesatregular different typesandsizesofequipment. the useofproprietary liftingdevicesunderstandcorrect procedures andcanidentify The CraneSupervisormustsatisfyhimselfthatOperativesand/orInstallersinvolvedin used instrictaccordance withthemanufacturer’s instructionsorrecommendations. of correct sizeorcapacityfortheloadtobelifted.Proprietary liftingdevicesmustbe are used,theCraneSupervisormustensure thatsuchitemsare ingoodconditionand When proprietary liftingdevices,suchasspreader beamsandtri-platearrangements, Examples ofmultiplelegslings Figure 10.11

10 69 FLOORING CODE: SAFE USE OF LIFTING EQUIPMENT 10.16.2 Lifting forks and block handling devices When beam and block floor components are to be installed, some form of lifting fork or block handling device may be used to offload and move the blocks. Block handling equipment must not be used unless a suitable net is secured around the load in order that falling blocks or debris are restrained. Persons handling these lifting devices must be trained and competent in their use and restrictions. The nets used must be of a suitable mesh and gauge to prevent the fall of material and must be inspected by the Foreman for damage at the commencement and completion of each contract, or more frequently on longer contracts. Any net found to be of such poor condition that its functional ability is impaired, must not be used. Before allowing blocks to be hoisted, the person slinging loads must ensure that the pallet or cube of blocks is stable and properly packed. This is of particular importance where scissor grabs or clamps are used. The mechanical block grabs used by installers on site are often larger / wider than the equipment used to offload the blocks from delivery vehicles. Liaison between the Precast Company and block suppliers may therefore, be necessary to ensure packs of blocks are offloaded and suitably spaced to allow site block handling equipment to be inserted between stacked packs of blocks without risk of striking or collapsing other stacks. This is especially important where blocks are pre-delivered to site. As with other forms of lifting gear, patent block handling devices must be marked with their SWL and identification. They should also be tested and examined in the same way as other forms of lifting gear and should be marked with their self-weight.

10.16.3 Lifting grabs Lifting grabs clamp onto the side profile of the floor unit. Therefore additional vigilance is required before lifting commences to ensure there is no damage to this profile. Safety chains must be utilised when using a lifting grab. These must be fitted to the floor unit before it is lifted from the delivery vehicle and removed immediately prior to final placement. Lifting grabs should have locking mechanisms to prevent release if accidentally contacted with the structure. There are two critical factors when selecting a lifting grab: its length in relation to the product to be lifted and its lifting capacity. The maximum length of product that can extend beyond the lifting grab clamps will be specified by the product designer and must not be exceeded otherwise the product may crack or collapse during the lift. The Appointed Person must ensure that the lifting capacity of the grab is adequate for the component weights to be lifted. The Appointed Person must obtain advice and approval from the Company to establish the maximum permitted cantilever (see Figure.10.12) and then select a grab of the correct dimensions to suit the product length. Holes and notches in the floor unit may affect the allowable cantilever length. The Appointed Person must consult with the Company, to establish that the proposed lifting grab or other proprietary lifting devices will be suitable for lifting non-standard components. The contact area between the clamp and the side of the floor slab is critical. If the contact area is reduced due to notches in the slab side then the lifting clamp manufacturer’s approval must be obtained before lifting continues. Lifting grabs are not suitable for lifting part-width floor units.

70 10.16.4 10.16.5 Excavators Forklifts and telescopic handlers telescopic and Forklifts of theplanningprocess toensure theliftingoperationscanbecarriedoutsafely. ofliftingimpracticable.Careful other forms considerationshouldbegiventoall aspects to placecomponentsinconditionswhere ground conditions orlimitedaccessmakes components. Howeverinveryexceptionalcircumstances, excavatorsare sometimesused It isrecommended thatexcavatorsshould not beusedtoinstallprecast concrete flooring component beinghandled. is maintainedinastableconditionandpaddedsothat nodamageiscausedtothe it willbenecessarytoensure thattheforksofvehicleare spacedsuchthattheload When handlingprecast componentsontheforksofaforklift truckortelescopichandler, manufacturer, withparticularattention beingpaidtotheSWLandweight/heightrestrictions. withtheinstructionsorrecommendations conformity ofthehire companyand/orthe At alltimestheoperationofaforkliftortelescopichandlershouldbecarriedoutinfull ground toprevent theequipmentbecomingunstable. to minimisetheunevennessofsite.Loadsmustbekeptaslowpossible necessary theuseofadditionalhard-core orsimilarmeasures shouldbeimplemented site shouldbechosenwithcare, avoidingadversegradientsandobstructions.Wherever If itisnecessaryfortheforkliftortelescopichandlertotravelwithunits,route across be used. Additional trainingmayberequired fortheoperatorwhere specialattachmentsare to the manufacturer orhirer oftheequipmentandratedSWLaltered accordingly. selection andinstallationoftheattachmentshouldbecarriedoutinconsultationwith Should anyattachmentbeusedinconjunctionwithaforkliftortelescopichandler, the restrictions, noise,workingenvironment, etc. and standingareas are agreed. Likewise,accountshouldbetakenoftheterrain,height that adequateaccessandworkingareas are provided, inthesamewayascraneaccess When aforkliftortelescopichandleristobeused,theAppointedPersonshouldensure competent andcertificated,istheonlypersonallowedtooperatevehicle. The Foreman shouldensure thatthepersondelegatedtooperateequipmentistrained, due totheforces experiencedduringtransit. recommendations maybecriticalinensuringtheunitsdonotbreak duringinstallation forklift ortelescopichandlertotransportprecast concrete floorcomponents.Their Liaison withthemanufacturer’s designermustbesoughtbefore planning tousea where reduced headroom ofliftingimpracticable. orlimitedaccessmakesotherforms Forklifts ortelescopichandlersare sometimesusedtoplacecomponentsinconditions Effective unitwidthforliftingwithsidegrabs Figure 10.12 notch width minus width isfull Ef fective unit Cantilever Lifting clamp hole width minus width isfull Ef fective unit 10 71 FLOORING CODE: SAFE USE OF LIFTING EQUIPMENT Page left blank intentionally

72 11 MOVEMENT OF UNITS BY OTHER MEANS 11

11.1 Barring Components should be positioned as near as possible to their final position to minimise barring; however, the use of pinch or crowbars to move components is common to all types of floor unit and all categories of contract. The bar is used to move individual units into their final position, and to tighten up a floor after laying. In whatever situation barring is carried out, there are basic precautions that must be observed: The ability of the structure to withstand this type of movement must be considered at the design stage. The Installers must carry out a visual assessment to satisfy themselves as to the robustness of the bearings before carrying out this operation and seek professional advice if unsure. Only competent Operatives should carry out barring operations. Only authorised personnel should be allowed within the working area and whilst barring is taking place, no person should be allowed within the exclusion zone(s), as set out in the Safe Working Method Statement. If barring cannot be avoided and the bearings are not considered robust enough, the units must not be positioned until the bearing is improved, or some temporary measures taken, such as properly designed temporary support to the components or bracing of the bearings. Barring should be carried out by two Operatives, moving the unit simultaneously at each end of the unit. The bar itself must be of sound construction and of adequate strength, and should be long enough to enable the person barring the component to stand upright. The end of the bar should be shaped such that it can gain maximum purchase onto MOVEMENT OF UNITS BY OTHER MEANS

the unit to be moved, and the heel of the bar must be able to fully bear onto the units or structure being barred against. Where a possibility of damage to other surfaces exists, protective measures should be employed to prevent spalling or fracture. Components should not be moved by this method unless there are sufficient units or other elements of structure to provide a suitable platform on which the person(s) carrying out the operation can stand. Such a platform must be of sufficient size to enable the person(s) to properly brace himself and to ensure that, in the event of bar slippage, the person will not fall through a void, or over an edge. Section 13.4.1 of this Code of Practice deals with the question of edge protection. When moving components by this means, care must be taken to ensure that the units are not damaged to an extent that will impair their structural integrity. Components must be positioned or moved by a succession of small movements. No

attempt should be made to slide or lift units for distances that would cause the operatives FLOORING CODE: involved in the operation to lose their balance, or to hold excessive weight on a bar.

11.2 Jacking 11.2.1 Jacking of floor units The use of jacks to raise precast floor units is uncommon and should be avoided wherever possible. In instances where there may be particular requirements to use jacking it should only be implemented after a full risk/design assessment has been undertaken.

73 11.2.2 Jacking of stair units The use of jacks to raise precast stair units is more common. These jacking works should be short-term, for the purpose of adjusting unit height and level and should not be used for temporary support. All jacking operations must be planned, designed, supervised and undertaken only by persons with the necessary skills, knowledge training and experience to carry out the work activities safely. In all cases jacks must be used in compliance with the instructions and recommendations of the manufacturer.

11.3 Other means of installing or moving components Where, for practical reasons, cranes may not be employed, other methods may be devised and used, subject to a full design and installation risk assessment in agreement between the Contractor and the Company. Whenever possible such situations should be designed out.

74 12 12 ADDITIONAL ON-SITE WORKS

12.1 Temporary structural support The practice of installing precast units onto temporary bearings must be avoided wherever possible. In cases where such measures are unavoidable, the requirement to fix on temporary bearings must be notified to the Company at the design stage of the contract, and fixing must not progress until written confirmation has been obtained by the Contractor’s Site Representative from a competent technical authority that the temporary structure has been suitably designed.

12.2 Propping Should propping be required as bearing enhancement, or for other reasons, during the construction phase, this will be indicated on the construction drawings and/or Safe Working Method Statement. Where required, mid-span propping, or back-propping, should also be indicated on the drawings/Safe Working Method Statement. All props should be designed, installed, inspected, adjusted and struck by Competent Persons employed by the Contractor. ADDITIONAL ON-SITE WORKS

12.3 In-situ concrete Wet concrete, mould oil and timber treatments are skin irritants and the requirements of the COSHH Assessment and the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations must be complied with. In-situ concrete work must be executed in accordance with Working Drawings, Risk Assessments and Safe Working Method Statement. No in-situ works should be carried out without reference to the Company so that any design implications can be assessed and the work recorded. In-situ concrete can be supported either on permanent shutters, or on formwork. In the case of permanent shutters, these should be tight fitting to one another and their size should be such that the total area of concrete is supported. Permanent shutter units must be examined for cracking or other damage before any wet concrete is placed on them. These may need propping until the concrete is adequately cured. Where props FLOORING CODE: are used, these must be designed by a Competent Person with due regard to number and position, and installed as directed by the Building Designer. When temporary or permanent formwork is used, this must be of sufficient strength to support its own weight, and that of the concrete, together with reinforcement and the weight of any Operatives or plant engaged in the work. Formwork and steel reinforcement must be designed, constructed and installed by Competent Persons and should be closely examined before, during and after the placing of concrete, in accordance with the requirements of current Standards and Codes. The Contractor must ensure that adequate scaffold for safe access to the work place is made available. When using a mobile concrete mixing plant and equipment, care must be taken that these are operated by competent persons, in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Before commencing any in-situ concrete placement, the Foreman should ensure that the weather conditions are satisfactory so far as could be reasonably foreseen (as shown in Figure 12.1). Concreting should not commence in conditions likely to cause its failure or displacement, unless adequate measures are implemented to protect it. In all cases where work is not commenced, or doubt exists as to the suitability of weather conditions, the Company’s Representative must advise the Company of the situation.

75 All in-situ work OK Temp. 5°C Temp. All in-situ work OK Grout OK rising 4°C falling No in-situ work allowed Bedding OK 3°C Ready-mixed OK Site-mixed NOT ALLOWED No in-situ work allowed 2°C 1°C Figure 12.1 Guidance for in-situ concrete work in cold weather

Whilst in-situ concrete work is in progress, the Foreman and site management team should ensure that the area beneath the work being completed is kept clear of all personnel not engaged in this work.

12.3.1 Concrete screeds/toppings/grout Concrete can be delivered to the point of placement by various methods, e.g. Concrete pump. Crane and skips. Special precautions are required for all operations. It should be noted that any operative working a concrete pump must hold a certificate of competence. The use of cranes is covered in Section 10 of this Code of Practice. All concrete skips used must be specifically designed for the purpose and fully supported with current test certificates. Particular care must be taken when passing the concrete skip through other elements of the structure to ensure that it does not accidentally strike them or become entangled. Excessive heaping of the concrete must be avoided (this is a particular issue on T-beam and block flooring). Care should also be taken to prevent impact loading from the concrete, e.g. discharging a skip or pump from a height of more than 0.5 m must be avoided. Loading out of the floor must be avoided until the screeds, toppings and grout have cured for typically not less than 72 hours, and the flooring manufacturer or Engineer should be consulted. The procedures for grouting are similar to those for in-situ concrete and screeding. The Work Method Statement and drawings must be referred to for the mix specification, joint details, surface preparation and information about responsibility for carrying out the work. Formwork must be removed only after the concrete has achieved sufficient strength, and the curing time allowed should be as stated by the Precast Designer. Grouting should be carried out as soon as possible after installation of units. Where grouting is delayed, steps should be taken to prevent accidental displacement of units from their bearings. Where this situation arises, and before persons are allowed under these units, an inspection of the units’ supports on the bearings by a competent person from a safe area must be undertaken.

12.4 Forming holes Normally holes will be formed in components during manufacture. However, additional holes may be formed after agreement with the Company’s design department. Non- percussion equipment should be used and particular care should be taken when forming holes post-installation using a diamond core-drill. Prestressing tendons should not be cut unless approved by the Designer. The Foreman and site management team should ensure that the area beneath the drilling operation is kept clear of all personnel not engaged in this work.

12.5 during cuttinganddrilling. the workarea towearfacefitted respiratory protective equipment(RPE)withaP3filter equipment orbysuppression usingwater. Inadditionitisusuallynecessaryforthosein damage –includinglungcancer. Thisdustmustbecontrolled –eitherbyextraction dust. Thiscontainsahighpercentage ofcrystallinesilicawhichcancauserespiratory Cutting anddrillingconcrete products tendstoproduce large quantitiesofveryfine Management Plan. Any wastematerialsshouldbedisposedofinaccordance withtheSiteWaste personnel notengagedinthiswork. cutting operationsare carried outinasafemannerandthearea iskeptclearofall risk assessments.TheForeman andsitemanagementteamshouldensure thatall appropriate equipmentinaccordance withtheSafeWorking MethodStatementand agreement withtheCompany’s designdepartment.Cutsshouldbemadeusingthe Where cuttingisrequired onsite,modificationstotheunitmaybemadeafter Cutting units on site on units Cutting 12 77 FLOORING CODE: ADDITIONAL ON-SITE WORKS Page left blank intentionally

78 13 ACCESS TO WORKING AREA, WORK AT 13 HEIGHT AND PROTECTION AGAINST FALLS

13.1 Introduction The Work at Height Regulations 2005 (as amended), gives employers the following hierarchy of precautions to follow when planning work at height:

Duty Holders must:

A W

Figure 12.1 The work at height hierarchy of precautions

The following is taken from HSE Document: HSG150: Health and safety in construction. Those in control of work must: Avoid work at height where they can. Use work equipment to prevent falls where work at height cannot be avoided. Where the risk of a fall cannot be eliminated, use work equipment to minimise the distance and consequences of a fall should one occur. Always consider measures that protect all those at risk, i.e. collective protection measures (scaffolds, nets, soft landing systems) before measures that only protect the individual, i.e. personal protection measures (a harness).

Ensure work is carried out only when weather conditions do not jeopardise the health HEIGHT ACCESS TO WORKING AREA, WORK AT

and safety of the workers.

13.2 General principles for control measures Generally the installation of precast flooring and stairs, etc. will require the Operatives to work at height. This work will require careful planning following the hierarchy of controls to reduce the risks of working at height. There is a range of measures available to protect the perimeter of the building/working area and the leading edge; these include working platforms, handrails, work restraint, safety nets, airbags and fall arrest systems. All of these should be considered within the hierarchy of measures, and their selection will depend upon the type of floor being installed and the structure the floor is being installed onto. The hierarchy of control

requires those planning the work to use measures that protect the whole workforce all FLOORING CODE: the time (collective protection) in preference to measures that protect only one worker (individual protection). The system that affords the most suitable reasonably practicable level of protection should be employed. Precast Companies should endeavor to keep informed of technical innovations and good practice when planning work at height to ensure the most effective control measures are considered.

79 13.3 Safe access to the working area Safe means of access to the working area also requires careful planning in advance of site attendance, particularly where work progresses during installation. Safe means of access should be agreed with the Company Representative and positioned adjacent to the start point, where reasonably practicable. Typical methods include: Independent scaffolds. Suitably protected stairs and ramps. Fixed or mobile scaffold towers. Mobile access equipment. Secured ladders. More detailed advice on the selection and use of access equipment is given in HSE guidance listed below: HSE Information Sheet MISC 614 Preventing falls from boom-type mobile elevating work platforms. General Information Sheet No. 6 (GEIS6) The selection, management and use of mobile elevating work platforms HSG 150 Health and safety in construction (pages 14 to 37). Additional advice is available from the Prefabricated Access Suppliers and Manufacturers Association (PASMA) website.

13.4 Working at height – control measures The hierarchy of precautions to be used has been outlined in Sections 13.1. In practice, the perimeter of the building should be protected by the Contractor, by means of scaffold/guardrails/working platforms that will prevent a fall. Any edge protection installed by a third party should be checked to ensure it is suitable for use and if it is not then this needs to be rectified before proceeding with precast installation. The leading edge should be protected using the following hierarchy:

Active work This system prevents a fall. However, it limits access to the leading edge restraint systems and relies on the operative to act and is therefore active and personal. In the precast flooring industry experience has shown that passive and collective systems are far more effective in preventing injury and are thus preferred (see Section 13.4.2.3 Work restraint systems). Passive and Systems that do not rely on the installer to operate them and are collective systems in place prior to the first unit being installed. Passive and collective systems include nets, airbags, decking and many other systems. They minimise the distance and consequence of a fall should one occur. Active fall arrest Systems for fall arrest rely on the Precast Installer to use them and are systems therefore active and personal. These systems require the calculation of the maximum drop an installer could suffer to ensure that the arrested drop is sufficiently short to prevent the fallen person coming into contact with the floor. Rescue of the fallen person must also be considered when designing such a system.

Note: All systems mentioned must comply with appropriate schedules given in the Work at Height Regulations.

13.4.1 Scaffold and edge protection To provide safe access to bearing level and access around the edge of the installation area, a scaffold with the required handrails must be in position prior to units being installed. The Contractor and the Company Representative should agree exactly what is necessary and what will be provided by the Contractor. The Contractor should ensure

80 13.4.1.1

Masonry construction Masonry protected area. progressively butalways trailingthe inner edgeprotection canberemoved the as workadvances.Alternatively is inplaceandthenprogressively opened closed positionuntilpassivefallprotection openings). Theseshouldbelockedinthe usedatladder gates (ofthetypenormally installers canbeprovided viapersonnel inner edgeprotection forpre-cast product protection isinplace.Accessthrough the full workingperimeterbefore passivefall for asafeworkingaccesspaththe picturedNote: Theplatform issuitable or thepassivefallarrest isdeployed. inner guardrail isinplace(seeFigure 13.3) restricted orprevented unlessanadditional mustbe Access totheworkingplatform may require furthermodification. following tradesare tousethescaffold it the installationofflooringbeams.When isalsosuitable for Note: Thisplatform or theinstallationofprecast flooring. will interfere withtheoperationofcrane the upperhandrailtoapositionwhere they Scaffold standards mustnotextendabove necessary toremove liftingchains. possible, i.e.,closetothe200mmgap shouldbekeptaslow as platform the precast unittotheaccess/working Note thatthedistancefrom thetopof 600 mm). be ofadequatewidth(nolessthan should the floorunitandplatform than 900mmbelowthetopof scaffold shouldbepositionednomore access toamasonryorotherbearingthe Where ascaffold isconstructedtoallow and dismantling detailed adviceonsystemsofworkandarrangementsforscaffold erection, alteration The NASCpublicationSG4:15Preventing fallsinscaffolding operation–provides Confederation (NASC)GuidanceTG20:13 and mustbeinstalledtorecognised standards suchasTheNationalAccess&Scaffold for thedifferent circumstances where scaffold edgeprotection systemscouldbeused operation ortheofcrane.Thefollowingrecommendations are made All scaffolds needtobeconstructedsoasnotadverselyaffect theinstallation against fallingmaterials. gap betweenrailsistobeamaximumof470mm,andthere istobesuitableprotection at HeightRegulations,i.e.thehandrailshouldhaveaminimumheightof950mm, to workcommencing.Theymustcomplywiththeappropriate scheduleintheWork that allscaffolds are erected byaCompetentPerson,andare suitableandsafeprior Additional innerguardrail fitted Figure 13.3 Scaffolding formasonryconstruction Figure 13.2 S A 13 81 FLOORING CODE: ACCESS TO WORKING AREA, WORK AT HEIGHT 13.4.1.2 Steel frame construction

On steel frame buildings handrails are required to the external face of the building. They should be installed to the outside of the steel frame so as not to interfere with the installation of the flooring.

Additional guardrails rails may be required if the distance from the top of the floor to the top rail is below 950 mm. Additional guardrails may be required to ensure that the gap is no greater than 470 mm. The lowest guardrail to be set at 470 mm from the top of the steel. A toeboard should be installed as soon as practicable following installation of floor planks. The toeboard is designed to prevent objects rolling off a platform but it also helps to prevent incidents in which a person could trip or Figure 13.4 collapse and slide or roll under a guard rail. Position of handrails around perimeter of floor

A working platform to the perimeter of the building is required adjacent to where the first precast unit is to be installed. A safe means of access must be provided to the working platform (see Figure 13.5). W

Figure 13.5 Working platform adjacent to first precast unit

Working platform required adjacent to start G A G G C G point. Scaffold MUST be designed to withstand static and placement dynamic loading, e.g. double lanyard and restraint harness work, fixed to specifically designed handrails. Unless it is practical to install a perimeter working platform to all bays, upon completion of S Bay 1, operatives will work from Bay 1 floor units (with adequate fall protection being in place) to install the Bay 2 perimeter unit (see Figure W W 13.6). If access is needed to isolated steelwork during installation of perimeter units, e.g., to GL C during installation of Bay 2 perimeter unit, Figure 13.6 then this should be achieved by provision of a Provision of working platform for steel- framed building working platform. No precast unit should be walked on until it has been ascertained that it has achieved bearing contact to the minimum designed overlap. Subsequent barring must not reduce this overlap even temporarily.

82 13.4.2.2 13.4.2.1 13.4.2

Access mobile equipment mobile towers other and platforms, cage) bird decking, walkways, (e.g. scaffold platforms Working Leading edge control measures edge control Leading particular itemcanbereplaced, orrepaired, before itisused. Company, orwhere appropriate theContractor’s SiteRepresentative, sothatthe installation process, andanydefects notedmustbebrought totheattention ofthe The Foreman mustvisuallyinspect allsuchequipmentprovided foruseduringthe pasma.co.uk. the trap’and‘advancedguardrail isavailablefrom system’.Furtherinformation www. (PASMA), whichhavebeendevelopedinco-operationwithHSE:theseare the‘through recommended bythePrefabricated AccessSuppliersandManufacturers Association the taskofinstallingthismethodaccess.There are twoapproved methods When usingtowerscaffolds, onlythosetrainedintheirinstallation shouldbegiven over oroff thebuilding. high windasjustlockingthewheelsmaynotbeenough toprevent thembeingblown when unoccupied.Mobiletowersneedtobetakendown orsecured inpositionduring structure. Mobiletowersmustbefittedwithlockablewheelsandshouldonlymoved HSE Guidance,attentionbeingpaidtohandrails,bracings, out-riggersandtyingtothe competent Installersinstrictaccordance with themanufacturer’s recommendations and levelbaseandshouldbeconstructedby Mobile towersmustbeusedonlyonafirm Competent Personnel. Equipment shouldbemaintainedinasafeconditionandoperatedonlyby wind speedatwhichitcanbesafelyoperatedshouldfollowed. working atheight,asthiswillaffect stability. Manufacturers’ adviceonthemaximum and suitableforthistypeofwork.Particularattentionmustbepaidtowindspeedwhen appropriate fortheground conditionsonthesite.Theground andlevel mustbefirm be operatedonlybyaCertificatedOperator. Theequipmentchosenshouldbe When power-operated are mobileworkplatforms usedonsitethesemachinesmust risks associatedwithscaffold installationcanoftenbeavoided. and minormaintenance,mobiletowersorMEWPscanprovide safeaccess,andthe A widerangeofequipmentisavailable.Forworkshortduration,suchasinspection below.platform Assuchitmayonly besuitablewhere unitsare liftedvialiftinglugs. precise landing offloorunitsispossibleasanybarringneedstobecarriedoutfrom the 200mm clearancefrom undersideoffloorunits).Thisarrangementisonlysuitablewhere 1150mm belowthefloorunitbearingsurface(min950mmforedgeprotection plus must havefulledgeprotection. Therefore willneedtobeapprox. theworkingplaform Where are limitedwidthaccessplatforms provided alongsideeachbearingthese with therelevant schedulesintheWork atHeightRegulations. to beremoved. Workingare platforms tobeinstalledbyCompetentPersonsinaccordance as possibletotheminimumof200mmdownfrom thebearingleveltoallowliftingchains unit, i.e.,shouldnotexceedadistancethatinstallerscanstepdown,andbeasclose the installationarea shouldbeamaximumof900mmdownfrom thetopofprecast above thestandardbeneath ‘crashdeckonly’assemblyconfiguration.Anyfullbayplatform adequate lateralrestraint where required. Somesystemsrequire enhancementoverand andthatthesurroundingis designed/installedasaworkingplatform structure affords When lightweightdeckingsystemsare used,care shouldbetakentoensure thatthesystem person orcauseatriphazard orinterfere withtheundersideofflooringunit. do notextendabovethelevelofdeck,where theycouldcauseinjurytoafalling When scaffold systemsare used,care shouldbetakentoensure thatscaffold poles includingenhancedlightweightdeckingsystemsandscaffolding.working platform, areathe internal underthefloorinstallation.Severaloptionsare availabletoachievea Where provided, sitedjustbelowthefloorsoffitshouldfullycover workingplatforms 13 83 FLOORING CODE: ACCESS TO WORKING AREA, WORK AT HEIGHT When using mobile towers the Contractor is to ensure that surfaces are even and all voids are securely covered.

13.4.2.3 Work restraint systems Work restraint can prevent a fall by restricting the movement of a person to a safe area. It should not be possible to reach any unprotected edge, hole or fragile material when relying on this system. This system is based on a minimum of: a safety harness, lanyard and suitable anchorage point. It is imperative that a suitable secure method of fastening the lanyard to an anchor point is provided and that the anchor point is in a suitable location for the arc of movement required. Additional practical measures to achieve sufficient versatility include: running lines attached to at least two suitable anchorage points, which may be incorporated into the precast unit; An inertia reel block attached to a suitable anchor point (must be designed to spool horizontally unless the reel is fixed above the work position); and a rope line anchored at one end and used with a rope grab to adjust the length of travel from the anchor. The lanyard should be a fixed length or as short as possible whilst allowing the operative to reach the place of work. This prevents them from getting into a fall position, as they are physically unable to get close to the open edge. In choosing a harness, care must be taken to ensure that it will give the user, as far as is compatible with safety, maximum comfort and freedom of movement. Proper fittings and adjustment are essential to achieve these aims. Where active work restraint is being considered, adequate training must be provided to Operatives and Installers and the equipment must be inspected by Competent Persons before and after use. Supervision and training are needed to ensure that the system of work adopted is understood by all users and is maintained. Although, when correctly used, work restraint equipment with a harness, short lanyard and adequate anchor point can prevent a fall, it is more suitable for light, short-duration work and is not always practical to implement when installing precast floors as the leading edge(s) constantly move. Similarly, the anchor point may need moving repeatedly. A short lanyard would restrict the movement of the Operative that is required to fix the unit, as they require access close to the leading edge. In this situation it is more practical to use a collective protective system (i.e. safety nets, airbags, etc) that does not restrict the movement of the operative but provides protection to all those at risk (rather than an individual Operative) and minimises the distance and consequence of a fall, should one occur. A fall arrest lanyard incorporates a shock absorber designed to limit the shock loading as the lanyard becomes taut. A restraint lanyard does not incorporate a shock absorber. However, where restraint working is not able to completely remove the risk of a worker falling, it is best to use a lanyard that incorporates a shock absorber (see also section 13.4.2.5). The overall length should still be kept as short as possible. Lanyards are available that can be adjusted in length by the worker to suit the situation. Harness systems require a high level of training, understanding and awareness by the user and tight supervision. Errors in use are common and for these reasons passive collective systems are preferred.

13.4.2.4 Passive and collective systems

Lightweight decking systems Lightweight crash decks usually take the form of plastic platforms, which are suitable for use in most internal areas. The decking provides a safeguard when working at height and can allow full freedom of movement over the working area. Most systems will require the presence of perimeter walls for lateral stability. The floor area on which the platform supports are positioned must be firm and reasonably level. On-site installation

84 exerting excessive lateralpressure tovulnerablewalls. The Contractormustensure In order toprevent riskofwallcollapse,airbag installersshouldtakecare toavoid in removal ofsoft landingsystemsonceprecast unitshave been landed. blocking outallnaturaldaylight ifusingboarding. Task lightingmaybeneededtoassist off orfallingthrough thevoid,shouldafall occur. Care shouldbetakentoavoid have beensuitablyprotected, e.g. byscaffold ortimber, toprevent Operativesrolling The Contractorshouldensure walls,suchasdoorsandwindows, openingsinexternal airbags are thenarrangedtocoverthedesired area, connectedtogetherand inflated. Prior topositioningtheemptyairbags,wholeof the area mustbecleared. The adequate accessforinstallationandremoval. Installation ofairbagsmustbecarriedoutbytrained andcompetentInstallerswith pump. Theairpumpisusedtoinflatethebagsandmaintainrequired pressure. arecan beconnectedbyasystemofhosesandconnectors, whichinturn connectedtoanair a protection system.Theairbagscanbeindividualunitswiththeirown integralairpumpor Airbag systemscomprisebagsofvaryingsizesthatare clippedtogethertoeffectively form Airbags than 20degrees thenthere mustalwaysbe3mminimumbeyondtheleadingedge. the leadingedgewhere operativesare working.Iftheworkingarea isinclinedbymore rigged sothatthefallislessthan6m,netmustextendaminimumof3mbeyond at 45°.Ref:FASET BulletinNo.14(August2012)DrilledFixings.Where safetynetsare the anchoringmaterial,andanchorare capableoftakinganappliedload6kN concrete structure unlesstheRiggingCompanycanprovide evidencethatthestructure, Safety Netsshouldnotbesupportedbyanydrilledanchorfixedintoamasonryor load whenapersonfallsintothenet. constructed, asthesecanbepulledinbyselfweight/tensionfrom thenets,orunder safety netsshouldnotbeanchored toslenderbrick/blockwalls,especiallythosenewly to carrytheloadslikelyresult from bothriggingandusingthesafetynets.Ingeneral components andanyconnectionsthatwillbeusedasattachmentpointsare suitable that thestructureThe designerandtheprincipalcontractorneedtoconfirm –including should beconsidered inthedesignandimplementationofnettingsystem. The self-weightofthenetandshockloadingtoanchoragepointsineventafall obstructions. of injurythewholearea beneaththenetsmustbekeptclearofmaterialsand/or Should anInstallerfallintothenet,significantsaggingcouldresult. To avoidrisk must visuallyinspectthenettingbefore allowingworktoproceed aboveit. and riggers.TheForeman mustensure ahandovercertificatehasbeenprovided and competent tocarryouttheworksafely. Thiswillrequire theuseofspecialistInstallers Those whoinstallnetsmustbeaware oftherelevant standards, betrainedand of theworkinglevel. that minimisesinjury. Theyshouldalwaysbefittedasclosepossibletotheunderside Safety netshavehighenergy absorptioncapability, andtherefore offer a'softlanding' broad rangeofactivitytocontinuewithminimumrestriction. boundary, withoutrequiring thoseworkerstoact inorder tobeprotected. Theyallowa falls. Theyare apassivecollectivemeasure andprotect everyoneworkingwithintheir Safety netscanbeeffectively employedtoreduce thedistanceandconsequenceof nets Safety landed, unchainedandadjustedtofinalposition. installers mustnotpassunderorworkprecast unitsthathavenotbeenfully instructions. Suspendedloadsmustnotbecarriedovercrashdeckinstallersandthe Lightweight crashdecksmustbeinstalledbycompetentpersonstomanufacturers’ flooring andremoved oncompletionofworks. of thelightweightdeckingisusuallycarriedoutdaybefore installationofthe 13 85 FLOORING CODE: ACCESS TO WORKING AREA, WORK AT HEIGHT the temporary stability of the structure and enhance the fall protection or provide an alternative method locally where stability problems are foreseeable. All walls should be adequately cured before installing airbags. If the storey height exceeds 4 m the airbag system should be employed with a cover sheet above. Where the distance from the working level to the floor below is over 6.0 m, secondary measures should be used (e.g. clamps and harnesses attached directly to the hollowcore units) There should be no overhead work in progress above the airbag installation area at any time while airbag modules are being set-up, moved/adjusted or de-rigged. The absolute minimum airbag coverage should be 4.8 m ahead of the leading edge (direction of installation sequence), 2.4 m behind the leading edge and 2.4 m to each side (these to be increased to 4.8 m if the storey height exceeds 4 m). This is the absolute minimum area permitted and should not be regarded as target coverage. Bagging installers should whole fill rooms, where practicable, to avoid the need for repeated access to the airbag area to move or adjust the modules. Precast Companies should plan work accordingly to ensure adequate time is allowed for airbag installers to provide adequate fall protection. Flooring Operatives and Installers should be instructed that fixing must not commence until this is in place. The system must be continually monitored during its operation, i.e. to ensure airbags are fully inflated, and work not allowed to start (or be suspended immediately) in situations of non-compliance.

Other proprietary systems Other systems not listed above may be utilized subject to risk assessment, taking into account fall distance onto the product, and its ability to mitigate the consequences of any fall (by reducing the severity of injury).

13.4.2.5 Active Personal Fall arrest systems Fall arrest systems do not prevent a fall, are not a collective protection measure and are therefore regarded as a personal protection measure and an active system. They are therefore lower down the hierarchy than the passive systems described at the start of Section 13.4. These systems consist of a safety harness, lanyard and adequate anchorage point and aim to arrest a fall and minimise injury once a fall has occurred. Specialist advice and approval should be sought from the supplier of the equipment on the provision and location of suitable anchorage points. A suitable system of rescuing the fallen person in less than 10 minutes must be present before work starts; serious injury or death can occur if the person remains suspended for prolonged periods following an arrested fall (Section 13.9). Fall arrest systems can provide valuable protection, but they are not a substitute for effective fall prevention measures or collective protection measures. It must be clearly understood that, where practicable, proper working platforms, handrails, safety nets and airbags must be used in preference to fall arrest systems . It is imperative that a suitable secure method of fastening the lanyard to an anchor point is provided, and that the lanyard length will prevent injury by arresting the fall before any part of the body hits the floor or any other part of the structure. Practical measures to achieve this include running lines and lanyards attached to suitable anchorage points, which may be incorporated into the precast unit. Inertia reels may be used in fall arrest systems but assessments must be based on their design limitations and manufacturers’ recommendations. Note that some inertia reels are not suitable for horizontal spooling In choosing a harness, care must be taken to ensure that it will give the user, as far as is compatible with safety, maximum comfort, freedom of movement and, in the event of a fall, every possible protection to the body from the shock of sudden arrest. Proper fittings and adjustment are essential to achieve these aims. The use of lanyards fitted

86 13.4.2.6 13.6 13.5

Staircases aboveT-beam fl block ground and determine themostadequateandeffectivedetermine wayofcontrolling thehazards. staircase shouldbeassessedonits ownmeritsandariskassessmentcarriedoutto Layout offlightsandlandingsthe supportingstructure differ onallstairwells.Each components isnotpossible. measures shouldbetakento‘designout’thisissuebyensuring movementoffloor after installation.BuildingandFloordesignersmust take thisintoaccountandsuitable risk ofbeammovementonsteelwork.Thiscancause fallsbetweenbeamsduringand When installingbeam-and-blockontosteelbearings atupperfloorlevels,there isa falling betweenthebeamsandalsorisksassociated withmanualhandlingofblocks. when installingbeam-and-blockatupperfloorlevels.Thisisrequired tocontrol the riskof Where willberequired practicable,aworkingplatform beneaththefloorinstallationarea be produced, takingintoaccountalloftheforegoing. reassurance. Before itisused,athorough riskassessmentandmethodstatementmust other measures thatprovide collectiveprotection where installersneedadditional In somesituationsitmaybeusedasasecondary(back-up)measure inadditionto a primarysafesystemofworkwheninstallingprecast concrete flooringproducts. In practiceitisunlikelythatactivefallarrest systemswillbecapableofproviding The followingcriteriamustbetakenintoaccountbefore usingactivefallarrest systems: The followingcriteriamustbetakenintoaccountbefore usingworkrestraint systems: inspection, maintenanceand,where required, replacement. restraint equipmentprovided andtherefore theequipmentmustbesubjecttoroutine The user’s lifemaydependuponthegoodworkingorder ofthefallarrest/work rescue procedures involved.Thetrainingmustbeprovided byasuitablyqualifiedinstructor. understanding, inspectionanduseofthatequipmentand,inthecasefallarrest, the All personswhowillusefallarrest/work restraint equipmentmustbefullytrainedinthe work adoptedisunderstoodbyallusersandtheequipmentmaintained. before andafteruse.Supervisiontrainingare neededtoensure thatthesystemof Operatives andInstallerstheequipmentmustbeinspectedbyCompetentPersons Where fallarrest devicesare beingconsidered, adequatetrainingmustbeprovided to the suddenarrest damage. causesinternal inadequate. Afallwithoutashockabsorberincorporatedinthelanyard canbefatalas not beusedinasituationwhere afallcouldoccur, i.e.,where restraint workingproves can beusedinafallarrest situationbutarestraint lanyard (noshockabsorber)must thefulllanyardheight permits deployment, i.e.,alanyard fittedwithshockabsorber with shockabsorbersisrecommended forrestraint workwhere thepotentialdrop Use of active and personal work restraint/fall arrest equipment arrest restraint/fall work personal and active of Use Time takenforrescue procedure. Correct body harness. Free falldistance. Type oflanyard. to withstandthedynamicandstaticforces. Anchorage pointsandpositionrequire anadequatemargin ofstrength andstability Correct type ofbodyharness. Means ofadjustmentlanyard. Adequate anchoragepoints. oor leveloor 13 87 FLOORING CODE: ACCESS TO WORKING AREA, WORK AT HEIGHT 13.6.1 Planning and co-ordination When installing precast stairs and landings, it is often a requirement for associated trades to carry out works during the same day of installation, i.e. rigging and de- rigging of safety nets, installation and dismantling of scaffold or other passive fall arrest systems. Full consideration must be given to the planning and co-ordination of all trades, ensuring that all associated trades are fully aware of their requirements and sequence of attendance. It is good practice for precast stair units to be installed after the surrounding flooring units. It is the Contractor’s duty, under the requirements of the CDM Regulations, to coordinate the requirements of scaffold protection to the stairwell during the construction phase. This may necessitate a scaffolder being in attendance during the installation of a staircase.

13.6.2 Hazards The main hazards associated with staircases/stairwells are: Work at height whilst installing the flooring product around/close to the stairwell. Work at height whilst installing the stair flights/landings. Work at height whilst working on the surrounding floor area after the stairs have been installed.

13.6.3 Safety in the working area

13.6.3.1 Installing the flooring product around/close to the stairwell

The surrounding floor should be installed around the stairwell before the stair flights / landings are installed. In turn this will form a working platform when installing the top of the stairs. The stairwell void should be protected by the Contractor via the most practicable means, e.g., scaffold handrails A A or by means of passive fall arrest or a combination of both, before installation of the surrounding floor or stairs in that area

commences. This will protect against falls into the stairwell during the installation of the surrounding floor units.

Figure 13.7 When fixing second floor and above When installing flooring at second and upper floor levels, fully boarded platforms should be set immediately below soffit level at the previous floor level by the Contractor. This platform provides support for the passive fall arrest e.g. airbags whilst installing the flooring around the stairwell and also allows access to the lower flight and intermediate landing. Scaffold standards to be kept below or capped off immediately above this platform. Full consideration must be given to providing adequate access to the upper floor level for the airbag installers. In summary: 1. Working platform provided by Contractor. 2. Airbags positioned on working platform which provide leading edge protection to stairwell when installing floor around stairwell 3. Working platform provides safe access to install intermediate landing and stair flight. 4. Work restraint equipment used at floor levels whilst installing flight and removing chains. 5. Stairwell protected at upper floor level by Contractor.

88 13.6.3.2 13.6.3.3

Installing the stair flights/landings into steel-framed buildings Installing stair flights / landings in a masonry structure (upper fl (upper structure masonry in a landings / flights stair Installing control measures. refer tosection13.4.2Leadingedge from fallsfrom height isachieved.Please appropriate meansofprotecting persons on itsownmeritstoensure themost units. Eachinstallationmustbeassessed flights, landingsandtheadjacentoor can beadoptedwheninstallingthestair some examplesofcontrol measures that The followingdiagramgivesguidanceand landing levelsbytheContractor. be provided and ‘floor’ toallintermediate must units, accessandworkingplatforms being installedindependentlyofthefloor necessitate thestairflightsandlandings On stair-only contractsorinsituationsthat require landingswillnormally Intermediate scaffold provision bytheContractor. bytheprecastinstances theaccessto‘floor’landinglevelwillbeformed floorunits. (where landinglevelcannotbereached theintermediate from thelevelbelow).Inmost Access isrequired landinglevel toeach‘floor’landinglevelandintermediate installation sequenceand the typeoffallprotection needed. The followingexamplesof goodpracticemayassistwithdecisionsaboutthe the topofstairs. wheninstalling aworkingplatform flights/landings are thiswillform installed.Inturn The surrounding beinstalledaround floorwillnormally thestairwellbefore thestair The protection mayneedtobeadaptedenablestairplacement. installation ofthesurrounding floororstairs. scaffold handrailsorbymeansofpassivefallarrest oracombinationofboth),before The perimeterofthestairwellvoidshouldbeprotected bytheContractor(byinstalling floor level. wheninstallingat aworkingplatform flights/ landingsare thiswillform installed.Inturn The surrounding beinstalled around floorwillnormally thestairwellbefore thestair Working provide landingandstairflights. platforms safeaccesstoinstallintermediate On steelframestructures willberequired access/platforms toallbearingpositions. This shouldalsobeusedwhenstandingonstairflightstoremove chains. product, scaffold handrailorthestructure where practicablewhilstinstallingthestairs. Installers shouldthenuseworkrestraint/ fallarrest equipmentattachedtotheinstalled Where passivefallprotection istoberemoved afterinstallationofthetop landing units, installed tothestairwellarea (i.e.safetynets)priortoinstallationofflooring. Where itisnotpracticaltoprovide thehandrails,passivefallprotection mustbe during andaftertheinstallationofsurrounding floorunits. the Contractor(viascaffold handrails).Thiswillprotect againstfallsintothestairwell Prior toinstallationofthestairsperimeterstairwellshouldbeprotected by At alltimes,consideration must begiventotheGeneralprinciplesforcontrol Stairs insteel-framedbuilding Figure 13.8 H H oor level) oor H 13 89 FLOORING CODE: ACCESS TO WORKING AREA, WORK AT HEIGHT measures when working at height. Refer to section 13.2 for information. Ensure surrounding floors are installed prior to installation of stair units as this provides a suitable working platform. Where possible a scaffolder should be in attendance throughout the stair installation to modify and adapt working platforms at suitable intervals. Restrict access to the working area to essential personnel only involved in the stair installation.

13.6.4 After the stairs and surrounding floors have been installed Immediately after installation of each stairwell is complete, protection must be provided against falls into the formed stairwell whilst working on the surrounding floor area. In addition, the stairs must not be considered safe for access until handrails and edge protection has been provided by the Contractor (see fig 13.9).

Figure 13.9 Example of protection following installation of stair units

13.6.5 Multi-storey stair cores Special consideration must be given at design and planning stage to the provision of cast-in anchorage points to aid scaffold arrangements and precast component installation ensuring that components can be installed without the risk to the health and safety of any person.

13.7 Falls from delivery vehicles The Contractor has a duty to ensure that all delivery vehicles are offloaded safely. Where an Operative is required to access the trailer to unload the product there is a significant risk of injury from falls. Work at height on the trailer, and on the load, should therefore be avoided where reasonably practical. Where work at height on the trailer and load cannot be avoided, then the Contractor should liaise with the Precast Installer and carry out an assessment of the site conditions. The hierarchy of control outlined in the Work at Height Regulations should be applied to reduce the risks of injury due to falls, as far as is reasonably practicable. Control measures range from working platform gantries, handrail systems, airbag systems, safety net systems, personal work restraint systems and personal fall arrest systems. Such systems should be adopted where reasonably practicable. The most effective system to be used will largely depend upon the site conditions, the vehicle and the size, height and type of loads being delivered, the location of site and site condition. All such safety systems will require careful planning. The Contractor should liaise with the Precast Installer and plan the offloading positions. The Contractor should also consider the Site Traffic Management Plan, other trades and deliveries, and ensure that adequate arrangements have been made to accommodate the system being used. Such planning must ensure that the offloading position is within reach of the specified crane, has adequate space for the installation and has adequate ground bearing capacity. All systems must be examined/inspected by a Competent Person and used in

90 accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations and should be visually inspected before use. Wherever possible, work at height on the trailer should be avoided. Where it cannot be 13 avoided, safe access to and from the trailer is essential, and suitable in-built steps or secured ladders/handholds should be used.

13.8 Use of ladders Ladders should be used only as access or for light work of short duration, lasting no more than 15 to 30 minutes where other safer means, such as scaffold towers or Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) have been considered and found not to be reasonably practicable. Properly constructed and secured ladders, combined with the use of safety harnesses, static lines or anchorage points, may also be practicable in certain conditions where the working space precludes the use of mobile towers. When ladders are used, they need to be of the correct type, i.e. a suitable grade of industrial ladder. They should be in good condition and effectively secured to prevent movement (Figure. 13.10). Permanent means of securing ladders at identified access points can improve ladder safety. This avoids the need for footing when ladders are tied and untied. Those who use, inspect and secure ladders should be competent to do so. Ladders may provide safe access, but their use is not always appropriate. Factors to be considered include: The length of the ladder required. Very long ladders are heavy to handle and may need staying to reduce flexing in use. Correct angle of ladder – for every four up go one out (Figure 13.11). There must be an extension of at least 1 m above landing point to provide a secure handhold. Ensure the ladder is adequately secured at foot and landing point. The need to carry tools, equipment, materials, small components, etc. Both hands should be free when climbing a ladder. The Operative must have a secure handhold and at least three points of contact when using the ladder. ACCESS TO WORKING AREA, WORK AT HEIGHT ACCESS TO WORKING AREA, WORK AT

The Operative must not overreach. The requirement for records of formal periodic inspections by the Contractor in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.

The Foreman must visually inspect all ladders provided for use during the installation process, and any defects noted must be brought to the attention of the Company, or where appropriate, the Contractor’s Site Representative, so that the particular item can be replaced or repaired before it is used. FLOORING CODE:

91 , 4

Figure 13.10 Figure 13.11 Secure ladder fixing Correct ladder angle

13.9 Rescue procedures A rescue procedure must be in place on all occasions where passive fall arrest or active fall arrest are utilised and where, therefore, a fall is still possible, e.g. fall into airbag, safety net, use of fall arrest safety harness. Any potential rescue procedure must be evaluated at the planning stage of the job and recorded accordingly. When planning for rescue, consideration should be given to the type of situation from which the casualty may need to be recovered, and the type of fall protection equipment that the casualty would be using. It is essential that individuals undertaking work at height are competent in appropriate rescue techniques and emergency procedures. These should form part of their initial and ongoing training. In addition to this, rescue techniques should be discussed at regular intervals, and at the start of any work situation that is unfamiliar to any of the work team. The rescue procedure must be based on the principle that no other person should be placed at risk of injury while performing or assisting in the rescue. This may require rescue kit to be present at each site. Rescue procedures should be practiced as part of the initial training in rescue techniques and during refresher training. It must be stressed that reliance upon the Emergency Services to assist with a rescue should not be part of the rescue plan. This is because there is a possible lack of appropriate equipment for the rescue, as well as the likelihood of an extended time period between the onset of the fall and the arrival of the Emergency Services. It is also important to consider what equipment is going to be suitable for a rescue and whether it will be available on site. Equipment that could be utilised could include: A MEWP. A proprietary rescue system. A system provided by the Contractor. A crane with a person riding cage. Note: Manufacturers provide various types of suspension trauma relief equipment for use by a suspended person. These can delay the effects of suspension trauma, but they only work on conscious and able casualties; they are not an alternative to rescue.

92 13.9.1

of acasualtybeingheldinsuspendedposition. should beaware ofthefollowingprecautions thatmightneedtobetakenintheevent All usersofpersonalfallprotection systems,andothersinvolvedwithworkataheight, vision, dizziness,feelingfaint,lossofconsciousnessandeventuallydeath. canexperiencepallor,in aharness coldsweats,nausea,ringingintheears,blurred Suspension Trauma (Orthostaticintolerance)isaconditioninwhichpersonsuspended All rescue planningandoperationsshouldaddress thefollowingissues: Suspension Trauma Suspension be treated fororthostaticshockorintolerance. in attendance.Theambulanceserviceshouldbeadvisedthatthepatientneedsto place thepatientintraditionalrecovery positionuntiltheemergency servicesare must ensure thatthepatient’s airwayisopen,thepatientbreathing andonlythen competent firstaiderwhomusthavealsocontactedtheemergency services.They or semi-consciousatanytimeduringtheincident,theymustbeattendedtobya After rescue, ifthecasualtyisunconsciousorsemi-consciouswas down untilsatisfiedtheyhavefullyrecovered (maximum 30minutes). checked byacompetentfirstaiderwhomayadvisethemtoavoidstandingandsit fall andthecasualtyremained consciousthroughout theincident,theyshouldbe After rescue, providing there are noinjuries,there wasnomedicalreason forthe casualty ortherescuer where safelypossiblemayalsoprolong toleranceofsuspension. also activatethemusclesandimprove bloodcirculation. Elevationofthelegsby circulation oftheblood.Frequent surfacewill ‘pumping’ofthelegsagainstafirm A consciouscasualtyshouldbeencouragedtomobilisetheirfourlimbs,stimulate or 112. Unless thesuspendedpersoncanbeimmediatelyretrieved, forassistancecall999 within 10minutes.Thisisparticularlyimportantforacasualtywhomotionless. injured theaimshouldbetocarryoutrescue person issuspendedinaharness, suspension traumadevelopingandthemore seriousitislikelytobe.Therefore, ifan The longerthecasualtyissuspendedwithoutmoving,greater thechancesare of The possibleneedsofthecasualtyfollowingrescue. The firstaidneedsthecasualtymayhavewithrespect toinjuryorsuspensiontrauma. (raising, loweringorlateral). The direction thatthecasualtyneedstobemovedgetthempointofsafety, The methodthatwillbeusedtoattachthecasualtyrescue system. has already arrested thefallofcasualtyforuseduringrescue. attachmentsandconnectors)that The suitabilityofequipment(anchors,harnesses, The anchorpointstobeusedfortherescue equipment. The safetyofthepersonscarryingoutorassistingwithrescue. 13 93 FLOORING CODE: ACCESS TO WORKING AREA, WORK AT HEIGHT Page left blank intentionally

14.1 14.2 Other tradesorpersonsonsite Members ofthepublic of thepublicare notinthevicinity ofthesuspendedloadorliftingequipment. During thecourseoflifting operationtheContractormustensure thatmembers need tobeemptiedbefore workcanbecarriedout. building isunavoidablethe entire building,orinsome casestheupperfloorsmay Work mayneedtobearrangedoutofhours. Where liftingoveranoccupied consideration shouldbegivenwhenliftingclosetoany adjacentoccupiedbuilding. Precast concrete products shouldnotbehoistedoveroccupied buildings.Due appropriate stepsare takentoprotect third partiesandthepublicintheseareas. andensurespace, theContractormustobtainnecessarypermissions thatthe When theinstallationinvolvesoperationofacrane inathird party’s air public highwayorarea andthearea leftcleanandhazard free. Any debrisormaterialthatfallsfrom deliveryvehiclesmustberemoved from the flooring mustnotremove orinterfere withthesemeasures inanyway. protect thepublic,OperativesandInstallersengagedininstallationof the works.Where theContractorhasprovided measures toprevent suchfalls,orto highways, additionalcare mustbetakentoprevent materialsordebrisfallingfrom On siteswhere thebuildingoperationsare incloseproximity topublicplacesor deemed necessary, theprohibited area mayhavetobepoliced. traffic signsandlightingtoallowthesafepassageofpedestriansroad traffic.If The Contractormustprovide barriers,notices, allnecessarytrafficcones,warning area’ toallpersonsotherthanthoseengagedintheinstallationoffloor. andthearea statutory permissions usedforoffloadingmustbedesignateda‘prohibited When unloadingfrom thepublichighway, theContractormustobtainnecessary especially where thedeliveryvehicleisunloadedfrom thepublichighway. The liftingofcomponentsandmaterialsmaypresent ahazard tothepublic, free ofdebris. Materialsmustbesafelystacked. reasonably practicableandattheendofworkingdayarea shouldbeleft The Foreman mustensure thattheworkarea iskeptcleanandtidysofarasthis the Contractor. operations, andtheymustalsocomplywithanyrulesorrequirements imposedby in force onanyparticularcontractinsofarassuchrulesorrequirements affect their persons. TheymustobserveandcomplywiththeSafeWorking MethodStatement execute theirworkwithadueregard forthehealthandsafetyofotherworkersor Operatives andInstallersengagedintheinstallationofflooringmustatalltimes storey work. areas where otherpersonsare working.Thismayincludeseverallevelsinmulti- The ContractorandForeman mustensure thatcomponentsare nothoistedover secure andthatnoticesare notremoved orobscured. co-operate withtheContractortoensure thatfencing,gatesandbarriersremain floor. TheContractormustactivelyenforce thisprohibition, andtheForeman must ‘prohibited area’ toallpersons,otherthanthoseengagedintheinstallationof The Work Area associatedwiththeflooringinstallationmustbedesignateda PROTECTION OFTHIRDPARTIES 14 95 FLOORING CODE: PROTECTION OF THIRD PARTIES The Foreman must liaise and co-operate in all respects with the Contractor’s Site Representative to ensure compliance with any measures, provisions or rules previously agreed with the Contractor or with any statutory provisions for the protection of the public. In the event that any of the foregoing requirements are not met, lifting should cease immediately.

96 15.1 15.2 15

COMPETENCY ASSESSMENT COMPETENCY SUB-CONTRACTOR AND SUPPLIER Assessment criteria Introduction Paragraph 58–AppointnentofDesignersandContractors. Regulations 2015legalguidancedocumentL153underRegulation8Generalduties Guidance onhowtoassessindividualsandorganisations isgivenintheCDM suppliers andInstallersofsafetyequipmentinstallationcompanies. proposed worksafely, inaccordance with theCDMRegulations2015.Thisistoinclude they havethenecessaryskills,knowledgeexperienceandtrainingtocarryout Employing companiesmustassesssuppliersandInstallerssatisfythemselvesthat 15 97 FLOORING CODE: SUPPLIER AND SUB-CONTRACTOR COMPETENCY ASSESSMENT Page left blank intentionally

1.8 1.7 1.6 1.5 1.4 1.3 1.2 1.1 1 Crane andvehicleaccesshardstanding Sub-contractor’s client). no Contractorexistsallreferences totheContractorshallmeanPrecast Flooring requirements oftheHealthandSafetyatWork ActandsupportingRegulations(Where the Precast FlooringSub-contractor’s use,free ofcharge, andshallcomplywiththe The Attendancescontainedherein shallbeprovided onsitebytheContractorfor www.precastfloors.info Flooring Federation,TheOldRectory, MainSt,Glenfield, Leicester LE38DGor Practice forsafeinstallationofprecast concrete flooring,availablefrom thePrecast partofandshouldbereadThis documentforms inconjunctionwiththePFFCodeof components. Required onsub-contractsforthesupplyandfixingofprecast concrete flooringand attendances standard health,safety andwelfare APPENDIX A:Precast FlooringFederation the crane’s operatingarea. Where craneage isworkingtheContractormustprevent accessbyanyother personsto including theuseofatrainedoperatorandsignaller where applicable. Flooring Subcontractorshallbeafforded itsunrestricted usewheneverrequired, agreed otherwise.Craneagemustbeadequate forthepurposeandPrecast Contractor, hemustprovide anAppointedPerson(BS7121)toplantheliftunless Where craneageoranyothertypeoflifting applianceistobeprovided bythe of theContractor. traffic andpedestrianscontrol, etc.,shallbetheresponsibility allnecessarypermissions, Where erection operationsare tobecarriedoutfrom thepublichighway, allroad signs, shall betheresponsibility oftheContractor. required inconnectionwithsuchaccess,thentheprovision of,orapplicationforthem installation planningstage.Shouldroad signs,bollards, be etc.,orpolicepermission highway, entirely suitableforthe safepassageoflorriesandcranesidentifiedat The Contractorshallprovide andmaintainanyaccessontositefrom thepublic to accommodatethesystemandminimisedisruption. Planning isrequired bytheContractortoensure thatadequatespaceismadeavailable Where practicable,fallprotection systemswillbeusedaround deliveryvehicles. Contractor. Parking and/oroffloadingfacilitiesforInstallers/Operativesmustbeprovided bythe planning stageanduponwhichhisquotationsare based. regardinginformation thedeliveryvehiclesandcranesidentifiedduringinstallation For theguidanceofContractor, thePrecast FlooringSub-contractor shallprovide must bemaintainedasindicatedontheliftingplan,fordurationofcontract. deterioration duetoadverseweather, continueduse,etc.Thehardstanding forthecrane and recompaction asnecessary. Maintenanceofthesameshouldtakeintoaccount plant; thiswillincludedesignandprovisionanylevelling ofasuitablecraneplatform entirely suitablefortheoperationsandsafepassageworkingofpersonnel The Contractorshallprovide andmaintainhard roads, hardstanding andstackingareas, A 99 FLOORING CODE: APPENDIX A: ATTENDANCES 2 Structural obstructions 2.1 The Contractor shall be responsible in consultation with the designer of the structure for the re-routing, removal and/or making safe of any obstructions (including parts of the structure such as purlins, cross-bracing and scaffold standards) which will foul or hinder a crane boom or suspended load. This must be carried out before the arrival on site of the Precast Flooring Subcontractor. The Contractor shall also be responsible for any subsequent replacement of such items.

3 Proximity hazards 3.1 The Contractor must inform the Precast Flooring Subcontractor at tender stage of any proximity hazards. Such hazards may include overhead electric cables, electricity substations, railway lines, airfields, waterways, environmentally protected areas, restrictions to third party air-space, basements, underground services, etc. The Contractor shall be responsible for obtaining any necessary approvals/permission from relevant authorities/owners. The Precast Flooring Subcontractor upon request must be provided with evidence of any approvals/permissions granted by relevant authorities/owners.

4 Safe access and protection against falls 4.1 Safe access to all working levels shall be provided by the Contractor. Scaffolding to the perimeter of working areas, together with handrails, guardrails, platforms or staging required for access and/or to prevent Operatives falling, shall be provided and installed by the Contractor. Perimeter working platforms shall be no more than 900 mm below the top of the precast floor. 4.2 When working at heights, where there is a risk of significant injury due to falling (e.g. from upper floors and/or floors over basements), the hierarchy of fall protection must be followed. Therefore passive fall prevention must be provided wherever reasonably practicable before installation of all precast concrete floors. The Precast Flooring Subcontractor may at his discretion offer this service. 4.3 Protection can be achieved by using working platforms, staging, lightweight decking systems, safety nets or airbags and the chosen measure should protect the whole of the upper-level work area. 4.4 The Contractor shall be responsible for ensuring that all voids and external openings, such as doors and windows, have been suitably protected to prevent Operatives or equipment from falling through or rolling off.

5 Welfare 5.1 All welfare facilities shall be afforded to the Precast Flooring Supplier/Installer by way of an Attendance by the Contractor.

6 Structural stability 6.1 Prior to the Precast Flooring Supplier/Installer commencing work on site, adequate hard, level bearings designed to take account of the construction loadings/ processes shall be provided by the Contractor. In addition, the Contractor shall be responsible for ensuring that: All brickwork, blockwork or concrete is cured, stable and fit to receive precast concrete units, and that steelwork is secure and stable. Isolated piers or toothed walls are made stable and adequate by the application of temporary measures as necessary.

100

7 General 7.2 7.1 Technical Department. mustalsobeobtainedfromphase. Permission thePrecast FlooringSubcontractor’s designed, takingintoaccountthemore onerous forces duringtheconstruction a competenttechnicalauthoritythatthetemporarystructure hasbeensuitably hasbeenobtainedbytheContractor fromcommence untilwrittenconfirmation wherever possible.Incaseswhere suchmeasures are unavoidable,fixingmustnot The practiceofinstallingprecast unitsontotemporarybearingsshouldbeavoided If weepholesare provided, theyare keptclear. from thesoffitleveltoallowunitsbesafelypositioned. All wallsandpartitionsnotproviding bearingtounitsshouldbeleftonecoursedown accordance withthelintelmanufacturer’s/building designer’s recommendations. or similarmovement.Propping maybenecessarytoachievethisrequired stability, in wall andhaveadequatesafebearingateachendtoavoidcollapse,displacement Lintels, steelanglesandRSJsetc.are beddedasnecessary, securely fixedtothe have suffered byreason oftheContractor’s defaultorthedelaycausedthereby. to claimagainsttheContractorinrespect of anyloss,damageorexpensehemay the worksinaccordance withprovisions ofhissubcontract,andheshallbeentitled be deemedafailure onthePrecast FlooringSubcontractor’s parttoproceed with oftheworksarisingfromAny delayintheperformance suchsuspensionshallnot suspend workonthecontractuntilrequired facilityhasbeenmadeavailable. to beprovided byhim,thePrecast FlooringSubcontractormayathissoleoption If theContractorshallfailtomakeavailableanyoffacilitiesabovestipulated A 101 FLOORING CODE: APPENDIX A: ATTENDANCES Page left blank intentionally

102

2.3 2.1 1.2 1.1 1.4 1.3 2.2 2 1 Regulations 2015Regulations Management) and (Design Construction Flooring FederationAPPENDIX Precast B: Design andplanning The existingenvironment text whichfollowsthePrecast DesignerisnottheBuildingDesigner. provided intheCodeofPractice,particularSection4–DesignConsiderations.In in meetingtherequirements oftheCDMRegulations.More is detailedinformation this CodeofPractice,toassistPrincipalDesigners,Engineers,andContractors istohighlightsomeofthepointscovered The purposeofthefollowinginformation in cranes andOperativesworkingatheights. Installing precast concrete floorsisahighriskactivitythatusuallyinvolvestheuseof installation ofprecast units: Building Designersmusttakeintoaccountstabilityof thestructure duringthe To assistthePrecast Designer, shouldbeprovided thefollowinginformation atTender Stage: precast flooring. to demonstratetheirexperienceandcompetenceinthedesignmanufacture of affected bytheproject. MembersofthePrecast FlooringFederationshouldbeable appointed toundertake,inamannerthatsecures thehealthandsafetyofanyperson organsisation, theorganisational capability, necessaryto fulfilthe role thattheyare work onaproject musthavetheskills,knowledgeandexperienceand,iftheyare an The regulations require thatadesigner(includingprincipaldesigner)appointedto obtained tooperatewithintheairspaceofthird parties. be liftedoveradjacentlandandbuildings.Inthesecircumstances,should permission may hindertheoperationofcranes.Onrestricted sitesitmaybenecessaryforloadsto The presence ofpowerlines,railwaytracks,trees oroverheadstructuralobstructions outriggers. Adequateaccesstotheseareas mustbeprovided andmaintained. and strengthening mayberequired tosafelysupporttheloadsimposedbycrane’s as necessary. Excavations,underground services,drainsandbasementsare ahazard The existingground provided shouldbeassessedandgrillageoracraneplatform delivery lorriesare off-loaded from thepublichighway. Pedestrian andtrafficmanagementmeasures shouldbeconsidered, especiallyifthe narrow roads orrestricted accessmaynecessitatetheuseofrigidlorries. placing theunits.Theprecast unitsare usuallydelivered tositeonarticulatedlorries; themethodofoff-loadingThe sizesandweightsofthecomponentswilldetermine and Lintels orsteelbeamsmust besecurely fixedandhaveadequatesafe bearingat unitfixingoperationsincludinglanding andbarring. withstand normal Precast unitscanbeheavy. Bearingsmustbeadequateand berobust enoughto crane boomorsuspended load. overhead obstructionssuch aspurlinsorbracing,thatare likelytofoulorhinderthe The designshouldallowfortheremoval, priortotheinstallationofunits, of Site andservicesplan. Phasing orsequencingoftheworks. Drawings showingthesupportingstructure fortheprecast unitsanddirection ofspan. Design loadsincludingfinishesandimposedloads. Pre-construction /ConstructionPhasePlan. information B 103 FLOORING CODE: APPENDIX B: CDM REGULATIONS each end to avoid overturning, excessive deflection, or collapse when the precast units are placed. Consideration must be given to the unequal loading of unrestrained walls, steel beams or lintels when precast units are being placed. Similarly, consideration must be given to the fixing of passive fall arrest systems e.g. safety nets, airbags, etc. The practice of installing precast units onto temporary bearings should be avoided wherever possible. In cases where such measures are unavoidable, the temporary structure must be designed and installed by a Competent Person provided by the Contractor. 2.4 When an order is placed for the precast concrete units, the Contractor should provide the Precast Flooring Sub-Contractor with the following information: Any relevant amendments to the Pre Construction information and the Construction Phase Plan. Fully dimensioned ‘Construction Issue’ drawings, detailing the supporting structure for the floors and any other aspects which may affect the floor design. Loadings, including type and location of partitions, types of finish, etc. Positions and sizes of all holes, notches or rebates required in the flooring. Provisional sequencing and programme dates. Where working in the vicinity of rail tracks, underground railway lines, or energy supply structures such as power cables, all permissions that are required from owners or controllers are to be given in advance, along with any instructions for the safe working of the installer.

3 Construction phase 3.1 The installation of precast concrete units should only be undertaken by specialists. Members of the Precast Flooring Federation employ Installers who are trained, competent and experienced in this work. 3.2 The Contractor must ensure that the Precast Flooring Federation Standard Health, Safety and Welfare Attendances have been provided. 3.3 Installing precast floors is a high-risk operation and should not be undertaken without the provision of a job-specific method statement and risk assessments, which may address some or all of the following activities: Manual handling Working at heights with risk of personnel/objects falling Working with cranes Handling or cutting concrete products, working with wet concrete or mortar 3.4 The Principal Contractor must ensure that other trades and the public are kept out of the working area covered by cranes used for installing the precast units. 3.5 A major consideration for the Building Designer and Contractor should be the stability of the structure during the installation of the precast concrete units: Sufficient time must be allowed for masonry mortar to mature sufficiently to achieve adequate strength and stiffness. The designer should give consideration to the provision of adequate wall thickness, particularly where shared bearings occur on lightweight masonry blocks. Consideration should be given to the proposed sequence of construction and the effects of any temporary removal of parts of the structure to facilitate the safe installation of the precast units. Sufficient time must be allowed for a grouted floor to mature prior to loading out with materials, which should not exceed the load for which the floor has been designed. Advice should be sought prior to the storage of unfixed materials on the floors by following trades.

104

4.4 4.3 4.2 4.1 4 The Health and Safety ﬁle Safety and Health The should besoughtfrom aCompetentPerson,withaccesstotheHealthandSafetyFile. Most precast floorsare constructedfrom prestressed unitsandadviceondemolition Competent Person. chases are notmadeintheflooringwithoutreference totheflooringmanufacturer ora the lifeofbuilding,designloadsare notexceededandthatfurtherholesor Care shouldbeexercised toensure thatbothduringtheconstructionphaseand designed. The flooringlayoutdrawingswilldetailtheloadsforwhichoorshavebeen Contractor willberesponsible forrecording departures from theasinstalleddrawings. of the The Precast FlooringSub-Contractorwillprovide ‘asinstalled’drawingsatcompletion installation, showinganychangesfrom theoriginalfloorlayout.Thereafter, the B 105 FLOORING CODE: APPENDIX B: CDM REGULATIONS Page left blank intentionally

106 APPENDIX C1: HSE general guidance on C1 manual handling

1 Manual handling assessments Hollowcore flooring is too heavy to lift manually and therefore an assessment covering manoeuvring and placement should be carried out. Handling of T-beams (as used in beam and block flooring) concrete floor elements and infill blocks can give rise to a wide range of injuries, including serious injuries where damage may be gradual and progressive over a substantial period of time. To reduce the risk of an injury, floor design, site conditions and the way the work is organised must be properly planned. This guidance contains practical advice on these matters and will help designers and specifiers, those managing work on site and those who handle beams and blocks on site. Individual companies must make their own assessment in respect of the requirements for their own products and employees in compliance with these Regulations. Where assessments indicate a possibility of risks to employees from the manual handling of loads, the following requirements of the Regulations must be followed. Avoid hazardous manual handling operations so far as is reasonably practicable. This may be done by redesigning the task to avoid moving the load or by automating or mechanising the process. Make a suitable and sufficient assessment of any hazardous manual handling operations that cannot be avoided. Reduce the risk of injury from those operations so far as is reasonably practicable. Particular consideration should be given to the provision of mechanical assistance. Where this is not reasonably practical, other improvements to the task, the load and the working environment should be explored. Risk assessments have been carried out on typical contracts including ground floor and upper floor applications. The assessments revealed that the main risks are: yyHeavy loads and poor posture leading to excessive stress and strain causing injury to muscles and tendons, particularly when the handling involves bending, twisting, stooping or other difficult postures. yySlips, trips and falls, particularly when carrying loads across floor beams that have been laid out to receive infill blocks and which necessarily have gaps between them.; yyFalls from upper floor levels where insufficient edge protection is provided.

yySharp edges causing cuts and abrasions to the skin. FLOORING CODE: APPENDIX C1: MANUAL HANDLING When handling T-beam and infill concrete blocks, the risk of injury is largely determined by the weight of individual items and the posture of the handler – the longer the T-beam, the heavier its weight; the heavier the concrete block, the higher the risk of injury. Poor posture can lead to injury. Where, because of site conditions, T-beams cannot be positioned by crane or other mechanical handling equipment, manual handling and carrying risks are greatly increased. In such cases, the team lifting process as well as the route between the delivery position of the beams and the installation location, must be carefully planned and prepared to minimise the risks created by the lifting operation, obstacles or tripping hazards. The final positioning of T-beams on the ground floor usually permits the installer to stand below the level of the floor beam. Although the movement required is not excessive, if considerable stooping outside the floor area is required to grasp the load, the risk of injury is high.

107 The final positioning of T-beams in upper floors typically requires the installer to stand on the same level as that on which the floor beam is resting. In this situation, if the installer is required to grasp the load at or below foot level the risk of injury is high. When ‘blocking-out’, packs of blocks are placed onto pre-positioned T-beams. The blocks are then carried from the packs and laid into the floor beam recess below foot level. Care should be taken to minimise travel distances and provide a flat, level and clear surface to walk across. 2 Precautions Where possible designers and specifiers should minimise the length of floor beams in order to keep their weight as low as reasonably practicable. Typically, 150 mm floor T-beams weigh 32 kg/metre and 225 mm floor T-beams weigh 60 kg/metre. Infill blocks should be of the lightest type available within the specification required for the properties of the finished floor. Project Planners, Designers and Contractors should ensure that the items listed below are taken into account when planning the work and when devising safe systems of work. Contractors should also give instruction and exercise supervision to ensure that workers follow these plans and systems of work.

3 T-beam and block systems – safe working method considerations The following should be considered when writing the company procedures for the handling and installing of T-beams and infill blocks: Plan to off-load floor beams from the delivery lorry directly onto the walls on which they will be finally positioned using a crane or other suitable mechanical handling equipment. Ground conditions should be assessed by the principal contractor for adequacy to support lifting equipment and a crane platform, or grillage or load spreading pad arrangement should be designed by a temporary works designer. Wherever reasonably practicable provide craneage of sufficient capacity to cover the whole of the floor area being laid without needing to relocate the crane. Where positioning of T-beams and blocks cannot be achieved using a crane or other mechanical handling device, trolleys or bogies should be used to convey the items. The route must be prepared and be clear of obstacles or tripping hazards. Installers should adjust their work rate to permit short breaks to be taken at regular intervals and should rotate their duties. Ensure sufficient time is allowed for the completion of the work allocation. Packs of infill blocks should be positioned as close as possible to the laying positions to minimise travel distance whilst also ensuring that beams are not overloaded by stored packs. Blocks should never be thrown from one person to another. HSE Guidance www.hse.gov.uk/construction/healthrisks/physical-ill-health-risks/ manual-handling.htm.

108 APPENDIX C2: Example safe working method statement C2

Note: This method statement must be used in conjunction with a LOLER lift plan where a crane will be involved.

A B Company SAFE WORKING METHOD STATEMENT Project Ref:

DOC REF: AA BB CC INSTALLATION OF JOIST AND BLOCK FLOORING ONTO A MASONRY STRUCTURE

This Safe Working Method Statement has been agreed between A B Company and the Client. It should be distributed by the Client to all relevant parties, including their Site Representative and should be read in conjunction with the site specific Lifting/Sequence Plan and all other documentation. This documentation is complementary to, and should be read in conjunction with, the Precast Concrete Flooring Systems ‘Construction Safety File’ issued to site by the A B Company Project Manager. Further information can be obtained from the Precast Flooring Federation www.precastfloors.info where the Code of Practice for the safe erection of precast concrete flooring and associated components.

PART 1: Management and Control A B Company Client Site Address Client’s Site Representative Mobile Number: Site Contact Tel numbers Site Office: Site Fax:

Other Client Contacts Name/Position: Contact Tel: APPENDIX C2: SAFE WORKING METHOD

PART 2: Description and Information (Contract, Site and Plant)

2.1 Description of Contract/Scope of Works

2.2 Method of Erection

2.3 Sequence of Works/ Lifting Schedule

2.4 Crane Position/ Operations FLOORING CODE:

2.5 Crane Safety Liaison

AUTHOR: Fred Bloggs DATE: 10.08.2012 PAGE 1 OF 3

109 A B Company SAFE WORKING METHOD STATEMENT Project Ref:

DOC REF: AA BB CC

2.6 Refusal to Sign off Crane Stands

2.7 Deliveries and Site Access

PART 3: Stability and Bearings

3.1 Stability and Bearings

PART 4: Personnel

4.1 Site Induction/ Method Statement Review

4.2 Training/Competence

4.3 Other Site Operations/ 3rd Parties

4.4 Use of Mobile Phones

PART 5: Health and Safety Management and Control Measures

5.1 Personal Protective Equipment

5.2 Access to Work Area

5.3 Positioning of Units

AUTHOR: Fred Bloggs DATE: 10.08.2012 PAGE 2 OF 3

110 C2

A B Company SAFE WORKING METHOD STATEMENT Project Ref: AB DOC REF: AA BB CC

5.4 Safe Working at Height

5.5 Leading Edge Protection

5.6 Accidents and incidents

5.7 Welfare Facilities

5.8 Recovery From Falls/ First Aid

5.9 Site Management APPENDIX C2: SAFE WORKING METHOD APPENDIX C2: SAFE WORKING METHOD

5.10 Amendments to the Method Statement FLOORING CODE: FLOORING CODE:

AUTHOR: Fred Bloggs DATE: 10.08.2012 PAGE 3 OF 3

111 APPENDIX C3: Example site-speciﬁc COSHH AssessmentAPPENDIX C3: and Example Control site-speciﬁcPlan – Petrol COSHH Assessment and Control Plan – Petrol

AB Company

DOC REF: AA BB CC

SITE-SPECIFIC COSHH ASSESSMENT AND CONTROL PLAN - PETROL

Site Construction Site A Completed by A Person Date 25 January 2017 Proposed 25 January 2019 Review Date

Complete the assessment below referring to each section of plant or operations that justifies a separate assessment and for each substance, including airborne dust.

Substance Petrol Supplier Any petrol forecourt retailer Substance Reference 12345 Task Refuelling saws and blowers for flooring installation teams

Substance description Petrol – an extremely flammable substance.

Usage activities Fuel for disc cutters and blower units for air-bag inflation.

Hazards Extremely flammable. Potential for dermatitis. Harmful to the environment. Leaking container in vans may present potentially explosive atmosphere – Lower explosive limit 1%. Risk of unconsciousness and death by inhalation of petrol vapour. Assessment of type and duration of exposure Exposure during refueling of petrol-driven plant. Duration may be as little as one minute per unit refill (potentially 5 mins per day for one employee).

Statutory exposure limits Benzene. 8 hour TWA 1 ppm 3.25mg/m3 Carc, SK W.E.L. EH40 / 2005

Existing engineering controls in place to control health risks Easy pour containers to minimise potential for spillages or contact with skin.

Proposed engineering controls to control of health risks None as such, as refueling cannot be completely automated or isolated in this task.

Document no. 12345 PAGE 1 OF 2

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AB Company

COSHH DOC REF: AA BB CC :

Operational procedures and any other control measures (existing or proposed) to control health risks C3

X No smoking while refueling or when in close proximity to petrol. Carry out refuelling in open air (not indoors). Do not run petrol engines in poorly ventilated or confined areas (risk of fatal carbon monoxide poisoning). Portable bunded spill trays provided to contain spillages. Maintenance and examination of control measures to confirm correct and effective operation APPENDIX C3: COSHH

On-site audit and inspection. APPENDI

Storage requirements Store in sealed secure container. Secure container in vans. Maximum quantity held at any one time in container – 5 litres. Quantities stored in blower and saw – less than 2 litres. CODE :

Spillage and cleaning procedures Portable bunded spill trays provided to contain spillages. Spillage control may include use of sand to absorb and/or leaving the area for sufficient time to allow dispersion by natural evaporation. First Aid procedures Eyewash should splashes occur. Importance of hygiene should accidental skin contamination occur. Accidental ingestion – DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. Seek medical attention.

Excessive inhalation of vapours – remove person to fresh air. FLOORING CODE: FLOORIN G Health surveillance requirements None required for this substance

Fire precautions No smoking while refueling or handling the fuel cans

Use of personal protective equipment Gloves to protect hands Safety eyewear to protect against splashes

Other precautions not identified above Instructions on how to control spillage

File location of Heakth and Safty Data Sheets Construction Site A – Contracts Department

Additional information

Document no. 12345 PAGE 2 OF 2 2

113 1 0

3 APPENDIX C4: Example site-speciﬁc COSHH APPENDIX C4: Example site-speciﬁc COSHH Assessment and Control Plan – Wet concrete Assessment and Control Plan – Wet concrete

AB Company

DOC REF: AA BB CC

SITE-SPECIFIC COSHH ASSESSMENT AND CONTROL PLAN – WET CONCRETE Site Construction Site A Completed by A Person Date 25 January 2017 Proposed 25 January 2019 Review Date

Complete the assessment below referring to each section of plant or operations that justifies a separate assessment and for each substance, including airborne dust.

Substance Concrete / mortar Supplier The company. Substance Reference 12345 Task Handling and placing wet concrete

Substance description A mixture of naturally occurring aggregate, additives, cement and water. Delivered in a plastic state designed for placing in structural and non- structural locations. Usage activities Used for a variety of structural tasks and situations. For this assessment it is being considered with respect to precast concrete flooring installation, particularly as infill between hollowcore flooring units and as a binding grout. Hazards Chemical burns from the wet concrete. Contact dermatitis. Irritant dermatitis. Assessment of type and duration of exposure Exposure is normally at arm’s length while wearing protective clothing and gloves. Duration may be up to 1 hour per day, but usually no more than 30 minutes. Statutory exposure limits None applicable while in its wet state as all dusts are bound into the product by water and additives. Existing engineering controls in place to control health risks Use of shovels, trowels, long-handled floats, rakes, buckets, pumped screed, etc to ensure minimal physical contact with wet cementitious products including concrete, grout and screed. Proposed engineering controls to control of health risks None can be applied to this task as a certain degree of ‘hands on’ activity is required to place the wet concrete effectively.

Document no. 12345 PAGE 1 OF 2

114

AB Company

COSHH

DOC REF: AA BB CC :

Operational procedures and any other control measures (existing or proposed) to control health risks C4 Importance of good standards of personal hygiene and knowledge of the effects of wet concrete. X Good welfare facilities to allow thorough washing and re-moisturising of affected skin. Maintenance and examination of control measures to confirm correct and effective operation On-site audit and inspection. Continuous supervision.

Storage requirements APPENDIX C4: COSHH

None for the purpose of this assessment. Wet concrete cannot be stored for any period of time. APPENDI

Spillage and cleaning procedures Basic housekeeping measures are sufficient for this product. Product can be re-used as hardcore by the Principal Contractor or disposed of as inert waste via on-site waste disposal measures. First Aid procedures CODE :

Eyes – wash out with saline solution for 15 minutes and then seek medical assistance. Skin – minimise contact with skin. Wash exposed skin as soon as possible and maintain good standards of personal hygiene. Ingestion – no significant risk. Inhalation – no significant risk. Health surveillance requirements Periodic inspection of skin during standard company health surveillance protocols.

Fire precautions FLOORING CODE:

None required. FLOORIN G Use of personal protective equipment Protective overalls (PVC over-trousers if necessary). Safety eyewear. Gloves (PVC). Safety boots. Note: Safety wellington boots should be used if there exists a need to stand in wet concrete. Other precautions not identified above No further precautions required. File location of Heakth and Safty Data Sheets Construction Site A – Contracts Department Additional information

Document no. 12345 PAGE 2 OF 2

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5 APPENDIX C5: Example site-speciﬁc COSHH APPENDIX C5: Example site-speciﬁc COSHH Assessment and Control Plan – Cured concrete Assessment and Control Plan – Cured concrete

AB Company

DOC REF: AA BB CC

SITE-SPECIFIC COSHH ASSESSMENT AND CONTROL PLAN – CURED CONCRETE Site Construction Site A Completed by A Person Date 25 January 2017 Proposed 25 January 2019 Review Date

Complete the assessment below referring to each section of plant or operations that justifies a separate assessment and for each substance, including airborne dust.

Substance Cured concrete Supplier The precast supplier. Substance Reference 12345 Task Cutting / drilling cured concrete products.

Substance description A mixture of naturally occurring aggregate, additives, cement and water. Dust may be generated when making alterations to cured concrete products by mechanical means, e.g., petrol-driven disc cutters. Usage activities Use of concrete is not considered by this assessment. Considerations relating to liberated concrete dusts are considered. Hazards Dust may cause minor irritation to eyes. Contact and irritant dermatitis unlikely unless prolonged contact with a concrete dust / water paste occurs. Inhalation of concrete dust (potential for respirable crystalline silica) with the potential to lead to silicosis and lung cancer. Assessment of type and duration of exposure Assessment is relative to inhalation of airborne dusts generated while using powered tools. Duration is minimal but can be job specific. Statutory exposure limits General dust – 10 mg/m3 Respirable dust – 4 mg/m3 Silica – 0.1 mg/m3 Existing engineering controls in place to control health risks Use of water suppression where possible to contain dust generated. Use of extraction systems, particularly high efficiency extraction units. Flooring units are bespoke to specific locations to minimise alterations. Proposed engineering controls to control of health risks None.

Document no. 12345 PAGE 1 OF 2

106 116 C5C5

AB Company COSHH

DOC REF: AA BB CC

C5 : Operational procedures and any other control measures (existing or proposed) to control health risks X Health surveillance. Disc cutting to be conducted in the open air to maximise dilution. Maintenance and examination of control measures to confirm correct and effective operation On-site audit and inspection. APPENDIX C5: COSHH

Continuous supervision.

Storage requirements APPENDI None for the purpose of this assessment. Spillage and cleaning procedures Basic housekeeping measures are sufficient for this product. Product can be re-used as hardcore by the Principal Contractor or disposed of as inert waste via on-site waste disposal measures.

First Aid procedures CODE :

Eyes – wash out with saline solution for 15 minutes and then seek medical assistance. Skin – Wash exposed skin as soon as possible and maintain good standards of personal hygiene. Ingestion – no significant risk. Inhalation – remove to fresh air. Health surveillance requirements

Periodic lung function testing and inspection of skin during standard company health surveillance protocols. FLOORING CODE: Fire precautions None required. FLOORIN G Use of personal protective equipment Protective overalls. Safety eyewear. Gloves. FFP3 dust masks. Other precautions not identified above No further precautions required. File location of Heakth and Safty Data Sheets Construction Site A – Contracts Department Additional information Each worker must be face fit tested, trained in the correct use of the selected RPE and must be clean shaven each day. Hooded or air-fed systems (incorporated into a safety helmet) are available for workers with beards.

Document no. 12345 PAGE 2 OF 2

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APPENDIX APPENDIX C6: ExampleExample guidanceguidance on on minimumminimum standards standards for for PPEPPE

BS EN 388: 2016

118 108

APPENDIX C7: Example daily pre-start APPENDIX C7: Example daily pre-start C7 checklist C7 checklist

START CHECKLIST START APPENDIX C7: DAILY CHECKLIST APPENDIX C7: DAILY

DAILY PRE -‐ DAILY

: C7

X APPENDI

FLOORING CODE: CODE :

FLOORIN G

109119

The Old Rectory, Main St, Glenfield Leicester LE3 8DG

Tel: 0116 232 5170 Email: info@precastﬂoors.info www.precastﬂoors.info